“No doubt this disc will be much studied and admired by saxophonists and certainly deserves hearing among a still wider audience…remarkably good and thought provoking”
“Timothy McAllister, the saxophonist virtuoso for whom this concerto was written, performed with amazing fluency, combining crisp rhythmic energy with infectious, stylish phrasing. Jazz influences, appropriate to the instrument, are often just below the surface. Moody sections, reminiscent of a film noir score, are particularly effective. This is certainly one of the most original and successful concertos written for any instrument in recent decades.”
“Top Classical Saxophone Recordings - Timothy McAllister (Scena and Visions)”
“a titan of contemporary music and the instrument in general”
“Soloist Timothy McAllister proved brilliantly up to the enormous demands — vast spreads of pitches, disjunct lines that wanted to be as lyrical as possible and some dazzling scurries.”
“Adams wanted a sax sound associated with jazz performance…McAllister’s powerful performance does have a more ‘American’ sound, while the St. Louis Symphony achieves the intended fusion of bebop into its veins while maintaining a sense of clarity and conciseness throughout…vital, engaging performances by all involved”
“It was Higdon’s concerto that offered the most sublime musical moments on the program…her saxophone concerto is an extremely lyrical piece whose ideas are clear and free of musical meandering…The work was played with warmth and agility by saxophonist Timothy McAllister…In the realm of contemporary music, finding a jewel amid the programmed mix is a rare music moment. And this concert delivered it with Higdon’s concerto.”
A new concerto for alto saxophone and orchestra coming for 2026-2027 by renowned UK composer, Errollyn Wallen! More details and information soon! If you would like information on the consortium, contact Martha Woods (info below).