Sonata brevis for saxophone (E flat alto) and piano (op. 95a, 1991)
Dedication
for Normand DesChênes
Movement titles
I. Allegro, II. Sostenuto, III. Presto
Instrumentation
Saxophone (E flat alto), Piano
Duration: 18 minutes
Premiere
28 October 1993, Fürth, Burgfarrnbach Castle Andrzej Rzymkowski | Gottfried Rüll
Autograph
Score / Sax part:
Title: Sonata brevis f. Sax (i.Es) u. Klavier op. 95a / Sonata brevis f. Saxofon (Alto i. Es) u. Klavier op. 95a - Length: 22 pages / 14 pages - Date: 12.12.91 / - - Location:
Publisher
Schott Music ADV 7036 / ISMN: 979-0-2063-0687-7
op. 95a, 1st movement
op. 95a, 3rd movement
Main-Post, 20 November 1995
A rhythmically intoxicating piece, rich in original musical gestures and effects, intelligent in structure and realisation, so that both the listener's ear and intellect were equally satisfied.
The three-movement work was written in 1991 at the suggestion of the Canadian saxophonist Normand DesChênes.
The sonata form with two themes characterises the opening movement. The continuation of the 1st theme is characterised by a jazz-like diction. In contrast, the 2nd theme has the character of a country dance. In the course of the movement, juxtapositions and interlocking of the two themes create charming moments.
The second movement, Sostenuto, is in arch form. The melodic material is introduced above an organ point. Ariose, chorale-like episodes alternate with recitative-like interjections. The Gregorian hymn "Veni creator spiritus" is heard in the golden section of the movement - performed by the saxophone. A greatly shortened recapitulation ends the movement in extreme pianissimo.
The final movement, Presto, with its variable metre, has the character of a rondo. Three different musical ideas emerge and are colourfully mixed up. A ruffled stretta concludes the musical-virtuoso movement.
Bertold Hummel