abstract: Four new duets by different composers were commissioned for this project that utilize the clarinet and bass clarinet with tenor saxophone and bassoon. The pieces are Three Southwest Landscapes by Dan Caputo, Gestures by Michael Lanci, Connotations and Denotations by Jeffery Brooks, and Lyddimy by Thomas Breadon, Jr. The present document includes background information and a performance guide for each of the pieces. The guide gives recommendations to aid musicians wishing to perform these works. Also included are transcripts of interviews conducted with each composer and performer, as well as full scores of each piece. In addition to the document there are recordings of all four pieces. / Dissertation/Thesis / Dan Caputo, Three Southwest Landscapes, I - Marvel of Ages / Dan Caputo, Three Southwest Landscapes, II - Weathered Moon / Dan Caputo, Three Southwest Landscapes, III - Abstrata / Thomas Breadon, Jr., Lyddimy / Michael Lanci, Gestures / Jeffery Brooks, Connotations and Denotations / Doctoral Dissertation Music 2014