A suite for clarinet, saxophone, and piano around the programmatic idea of St. Elmo (Saint Erasmus, the patron saint of sailors) protecting a group of sailors suddenly caught in a storm. The electrical discharges at the mastheads of ships were interpreted as a sign of his protection and this named “St. Elmo’s Fire”.

(I.) Aboard
A group of sailors depart for sea.

(II.) The Masts A’light, the Waters A’glow
The ship is caught in a sudden storm. The mastheads are struck by lightning.

(III.) Erasmus’ Presence
After lightning strikes, the sailors notice St. Elmo’s fire and interpret this as proctection from Saint Erasmus from the storm that has not yet passed.

(IV.) Wake of the Wind and Waves
The storm picks up and the sailors, believing themselves to be protected by Saint Erasmus, are delivered safely from its dangers.

Written for Michael Begley and Tyler Babneau