| Programme notes: | In 1992, James Houlik came over to my Manhattan apartment to show me what he could do on the tenor saxophone. His spectacular playing caused unbelievable comment from my neighbors and I was hooked on his beautiful, intense tone. His abilities at playing the most exciting and virtuostic repertoire and his total command of all ranges and means of expression inspired me to write a work showcasing his amazing talents. The three movements follow the progression and structure of the concertos of Mozart's time hence the title of the piece. The first movement is a Sonata Allegro, which dances with energy and playfulness, culminating in a huge cadenza for the soloist. The second movement opens and closes with a heartfelt chorale framing an uplifting, contrapuntal extended middle passage. The final movement is a rousing danse macabre leading to a second cadenza for the soloist. The coda brings the piece to a heroic conclusion.
- Eric Ewazen |
