[DWoz5000]

Who has heard this piece? What's it like? Is it good? Is it an appropriate recital opener? How long is it? All I know about it from dornpub is that it was written for Kenneth Tse.

 

[Steve P]

I have heard it on several occasions, and I have also performed it on a recital. It is a really interesting work, derived from a simple two note theme (D#, E#). Its minimalist in nature (something I really like), and is a lot of fun to play. It has some pretty significant altissimo requirements though... after playing the whole piece, you have to soar up to an altissimo E#, which is tough endurance wise.

Get Kenneth's CD and give it a listen.

Steve P

 

[DWoz5000]

Thanks for the info - I was unaware that the piece was recorded. Perhaps this is a piece to remember for later since my recital is altissimo heavy already AND my featured piece is the Maslanka sonata (making an altissimo filled minimalist piece repetitively redundant). Any other ideas out there for a nice SHORT opener?

 

[tracy285]

Lessons of the Sky, by Rodney Rogers. I'm using it to open my recital next spring. It's not too short, about 9 miniuts, but it's a great opener. It is however minimalist. I'm not sure if you want to avoid that or not.

 

[Angel]

I'm finding lately that the original Adolphe Sax repertoire (Demersseman, Savari, Singelee, et al) is great for kicking off a recital. Simple, light, and just enough flash 'n' trash to get most audiences' attention straight away.

I'm probably going to begin my next recital with either Savari's Freischutz Fantasy or a Handel Sonata.

Angel

 

[bezozzi]

I agree with Angel. You could also look at Arban's stuff. On the faculty showcase here, my teacher played some theme and variation by him. They're dinky flashy things, but they work well for opening recitals.

 

[Dannel]

How about Rabescatura for an opener??? Or better yet Festeggiamento No. 2!

 

[DWoz5000]

Oh Dannel

Dr. Gwozdz suggested some of the Adolphe Sax rep, so Demersseman is on my short list.

 

[Dannel]

P.S. make sure to let me know when your recital is. I may be able to come out and make it! 5 hour drive ain't too shabby.