Several of my works have been inspired by comments from performers, and Adventure in the Air is among those. In this case, it was conductor / saxophonist James Spinazzola who remarked: “have you ever thought about a concerto for either soprano or tenor saxophone? They have less repertoire than the ‘usual’ alto”. It was one of those “why didn’t I think about that?” moments. Especially the soprano option, as it brought back childhood listening memories. I have enjoyed the sound of the soprano saxophone ever since I first heard recordings of Sidney Bechet that were in my father’s collection of 78’s.
Although concerti for solo instrument and wind orchestra are a relatively recent genre, the three movement fast — slow — fast format has a long history. It has an attractive built-in contrast between movements, and can showcase both the virtuoso and the lyrical side of the solo instrument, and the ensemble. Much of Whirlygigs at the Kinetic Playground explores the ensemble’s commentary on the soloist’s lines, especially by the percussion section. The Dreams You Chase features more straightforward melodic writing from the saxophone, with the ensemble sometimes melodic on its own, and other times providing a lush carpet of sonic support. Monkey Brain Bop has more true back-and-forths between soloist and ensemble. The wind orchestra contributes unique sonic spice to the affair by utilizing spoken sounds and, for the percussion section, slide whistles.