Frank Martin and the Saxophone

Frank Martin, a Swiss composer renowned for his intricate and expressive works, presents a captivating exploration of his compositions adapted for the saxophone in "Frank Martin and the Saxophone." Released in 2012, this album offers a unique perspective on Martin's music, showcasing the versatility and richness of the saxophone through seven meticulously arranged pieces.

The album features the extraordinary talents of Arno Bornkamp on saxophone, accompanied by the Amsterdam Sinfonietta under the direction of Thierry Fischer. Bornkamp's virtuosity breathes new life into Martin's compositions, originally written for various instruments, and translates them beautifully for the saxophone. The pieces span a range of moods and styles, from the hauntingly beautiful "Ballade for Tenor Saxophone and Orchestra" to the lively and rhythmic "Trois Danses."

Highlights include the "Ballade for Alto Saxophone, Piano, Timpani and Strings," a work that Martin himself arranged for saxophone, and the delicate "Petite Complainte," originally for oboe and here adapted for soprano saxophone and piano. The album also features the "Sonata da Chiesa," originally written for viola d'amore and here presented in a stunning saxophone and organ arrangement.

With a duration of 58 minutes, "Frank Martin and the Saxophone" is a testament to the composer's genius and the saxophone's expressive power. This album is a treasure trove for both classical music enthusiasts and saxophone aficionados, offering a fresh and engaging interpretation of Frank Martin's timeless compositions.