Publisher Desc.  "Khamsin," composed for string quartet, refers to a Saharan hot, dry dust storm that blows across Northern Africa. The work is in four parts, plus a coda. The first part begins on one pitch, then expands outwards with intense driving rhythms. In contrast, the second section is more placid and laid-back, highlighting sustained tones and harmonics. This is followed by a dance-like section, with an injection of a dose of humor, which then leads to return to the energetic opening material.