Monday, September 14, 2015

Advocates For The Tenor Saxophone

     As a member of the saxophone family the tenor saxophone is a medium sized instrument within that family of musical instruments. Pitched in Bb the tenor saxophone is a transposing instrument, and along with the alto saxophone is one of the most commonly played saxophones. In jazz tenor saxophone is much loved, and very well received, but in classical music the same cannot be said. Saxophonist such as Frederick Hemke, James Houlik, and John Moore have spent time focusing and performing on tenor saxophone as a classical solo instrument.

     Classical tenor saxophone recordings make-up a small portion of classical saxophone repertoire and discography. In orchestral music tenor saxophone is heard in Maurice Ravel`s Bolero. Classical recordings of tenor saxophone represent a very small number of classical or concert saxophone recordings, which is dominated by recordings for alto and soprano saxophones. Though generally not heard in classical music, tenor saxophone can be found in concert bands, chamber music, and solo performances. Tenor saxophone can also be heard in military bands, marching bands, and is ubiquitous in jazz ensembles, as well as popular bands and genres.

     Saxophonist Frederick Hemke advocated for tenor saxophone back in 1971 by focusing on tenor saxophone as a solo instrument. Frederick Hemke has two LP recordings that are performed on tenor saxophone:
                    1. The American Saxophonist
                    2.Music For Tenor Saxophone
If you ever get an opportunity to hear Hemke`s Tenor Saxophone Index on The American Saxophonist LP or CD, it will give you an appreciation for tenor saxophone in classical music. Tenor Saxophone Index is a collection of 15 pieces written of performed by Frederick Hemke on tenor saxophone. Other names to look for in concert tenor saxophone are James Houlik, and John Moore.

     James Houlik is considered to be the leading performer on concert tenor saxophone in the world. James Houlik advocates for the tenor saxophone by focusing on tenor saxophone exclusively. James Houlik has inspired over 85 concert compositions written for tenor saxophone, which includes solos, chamber works, and concerto compositions. John Moore has performed as a member of The Trio, Trio Bel Canto, Aeolian Saxophone Quartet, The Saxophone Sinfonia, New York Chamber Saxophones, and the New Sousa Band. Both James Houlik and John Moore are currently Professors of Saxophone at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and University of Louisville, respectively.

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