Ian Wilson: Sarée in Kassel - A Contemporary Work for Alto Saxophone and Ensemble

Product Information

• UPC/Item Number: RICL00016200
• ISMN: 9790570029068 / 979-0570029068
• Product Type: Musical Score
• Genre: Contemporary Classical Music
• Instrumentation: Alto Saxophone and Ensemble
• Difficulty Level: Grade 3-4
• Language: English
• Publisher: Ricordi

Overview

Ian Wilson’s Sarée in Kassel is an imaginative and richly textured contemporary composition for alto saxophone and ensemble, offering a compelling exploration of color, texture, and dialogue between soloist and group. The piece highlights Wilson’s characteristic flair for lyrical abstraction and rhythmic intricacy, presenting the alto saxophone as both a leading voice and an integrated part of the ensemble fabric. Written for intermediate to advanced performers, Sarée in Kassel is ideal for concert settings, contemporary music programs, and chamber ensemble showcases. It challenges players to engage with complex ensemble interactions, while also inviting expressive freedom, particularly in the solo saxophone part. The work requires a high level of musical sensitivity and coordination, making it a rewarding experience for both soloist and ensemble.

The title, Sarée in Kassel, hints at a specific place and perhaps a moment of inspiration or reflection—suggesting a narrative or atmospheric thread. Wilson draws upon this sense of setting to create a piece that moves between contemplative stillness and dynamic bursts of energy, reflecting a range of emotional and sonic landscapes. The alto saxophone, with its versatile timbral range, serves as a narrator or guide through these varied scenes, shifting seamlessly from introspective lines to more assertive, rhythmically driven passages. Wilson’s writing for the ensemble is equally nuanced. Rather than using the group as a simple accompaniment, he creates a layered and responsive texture, where instrumental voices interact, support, and challenge the soloist. This creates a rich musical tapestry where dialogue and counterpoint are central to the unfolding drama. The harmonic language blends tonal and non-tonal elements, offering both moments of clarity and harmonic ambiguity that contribute to the work’s emotional depth. Sarée in Kassel is an excellent example of Wilson’s sophisticated yet approachable compositional style. It emphasizes ensemble cohesion, expressive interpretation, and technical finesse, making it a powerful and memorable addition to the contemporary repertoire for alto saxophone and chamber ensemble.

Product Features

• Format: Full Score and Parts
• Ensemble Configuration: Alto Saxophone with Ensemble
• Difficulty Level: Grade 3-4 (Intermediate to Advanced)
• Composition Style: Contemporary classical music
• Performance Requirements: Requires expressive interpretation and technical proficiency

Interesting Facts

• Artistic Significance: "Sarée in Kassel" reflects Wilson's unique compositional style, blending traditional elements with modern techniques to create a captivating musical experience.
• Performance Context: This piece is ideal for chamber music concerts, educational settings, and competitions, providing performers with an opportunity to explore the rich textures of ensemble playing.
• Composer Background: Ian Wilson is a renowned contemporary composer known for his innovative works that often challenge conventional musical boundaries.

Publishers

Published by Ricordi, a respected international music publishing house dedicated to contemporary classical music.

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