The Italian verb Toccare means “to touch.” Traditionally, a Toccata was a piece for a keyboard or plucked String instrument (hence “touch”). Such pieces are characterized by an improvisatory and free-flowing nature, showing of the virtuosity of the player.
This Toccata for Reed Quintet displays some of that character, but for 5 winds.
A Reed Quintet is a relatively modern ensemble, consisting of Oboe, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Bass Clarinet, and Bassoon.