On this CD we present arrangements commissioned by the Moonwinds group (with the obvious exception of Una cosa rara), in continuation of the Harmoniemusik tradition, with the aim of expanding the Spanish, and specifically Valencian, wind ensemble repertoire. We have taken the title, En estil popular (“In the popular style”) from what might be considered the central work of the recording, which we have called Suite en estil popular, based on the string quartet Quartet en estil popular by the great composer Manuel Palau. The version for wind instruments brings a new dimension to the work, which is why we wanted to differentiate it from its original title, labelling it a “Suite” rather than a “Quartet”.

Moonwinds was born of an artistic initiative by Joan Enric Lluna who aimed to bring together outstanding woodwind players to form a fixed chamber music group. The group members have all had stellar careers in the major orchestras and teaching centres of Europe. Moonwinds appeared at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London to mark the start of the Spanish presidency of the European Union in January 2010, as guests of the Spanish Embassy in the British capital. Other memorable events include their performances at the Palau de la Música Catalana in Barcelona and the Palau de la Música in Valencia. Future commitments will see MW performing throughout Spain and other European countries.