Commissioned for Pierre Boulez's 75th birthday by Royal Festival hall, and first performed in 2000 by Rolf Hind at South Bank Center, London. Recorded by Charles Rosen on Bridge Records, and Winston Choi (l'empreinte digitale). 2 minutes. This is the third piece Carter has written in honour of Boulez. Esprit Rude/Esprit Doux (flute, clarinet 48001496) was composed for Boulez's 60th birthday. Esprit Rude/Esprit Doux II (flute, clarinet, marimba, full score 48001313, set of parts 48001587) was composed for Boulez's 70th birthday.