Saxophone world premieres : research, collaboration and performance

Watson, TA

Abstract

This DMA portfolio contains materials appertaining to the research and collaboration of
imaginative performance-based projects that have been completed whilst studying
towards a Doctor of Musical Arts at the University of Salford.
Commissioning and working with four leading composers in the Wind Ensemble genre to
write world premiere works for solo saxophone performance over a two year period
involved a great deal of thought and preparation. Further enhanced by a solo saxophone
and piano compact disc recording, this submission compromises:
1. In League with Extraordinary Gentlemen Alto Saxophone and Wind Ensemble
composition by Peter Graham.
2. These Mist Covered Mountains a saxophone and piano compact disc recording:-
Pastoral - Elliot Carter
Brainstorm - Tim Watson
Crazy Diamonds Shining Pete Meechan
Sea Shift - Robin Dewhurst
Fuzzy Bird Sonata - Takashi Yoshimatsu
These Mist Covered Mountains - Pete Meechan
3. Concertino for Alto Saxophone by Adam Gorb
4. Fenix Blue by Pete Meechan
5. Let it be an arrangement by Dr Robin Dewhurst
Each project is explained in detail, showing the research, commissioning, collaboration
and performance involved. Audio and video recordings with the commentaries are
accompanied by pdf scores, compact disc sleeve notes, programmes of performance,
magazine reviews and critical evaluations from leading performers and academics
worldwide. Choosing a wide variety of musicians to evaluate my work not only testifies
to its validity, but also shows the impact, significance and importance it has across a wide
field of musical knowledge.
With the many different aspects involved in performance today each project became
completely unique. The research, analysis and adaptation of already written repertoire at
an advanced level allowed the development of new stylistic sounds. The incorporation of
world premiere performances at different acoustic venues allowed not only performance creation and flexibility, but gave many opportunities to invite the composers to hear their
music performed and for the audience to engage and critique a new aural perception.
Using different ensembles for each premiere and recording meant logistical problems and
unforeseen circumstances had to be overcome, but working with composers that hold such
a high standing in their field allowed soloist performance boundaries to be pushed.
However, working with differing levels of musicality, in an array of ensembles, from all
parts of the country, meant there were various interpretations of the music, ranging from
different conducting styles to varying levels of musical accompaniment!
Along with the musical aptitude, skills and experience of the composers and musicians on
larger scale works, was the challenge of incorporating different stylistic compositions,
unaccompanied and with piano accompaniment for the compact disc project. Forming a
programme of unrecorded, new and established repertoire meant that the compact disc
compilation would have a unique quality to it. In the commentary for this project is the
justification of chosen repertoire and the need for professionalism when recording. Over
two days of intense concentration, virtuosic and technically demanding passages needed
consummate dexterity. Extended technique work added panache but also needed careful
control and balancing, along with melodic phrasing and tone production.
The final results from every project I found were enlightening and created a buzz of
excitement at some point on every performance, an experience I hope to never lose! In
conclusion, the submission contains other supporting material that shows my professional
standing as a performing artist in varying musical fields, highlighting my past and current
activities.

Citation

Watson, T. Saxophone world premieres : research, collaboration and performance. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Mar 9, 2016
• Award Date: Apr 1, 2012