Koppel, A.: Saxophone Concertos

Album Description

Dive into the world of Anders Koppel's "Saxophone Concertos," a captivating exploration of the saxophone's versatility and expressive power. Released in 2006, this album showcases two stunning concertos that blend classical elegance with contemporary flair, performed by the talented Benjamin Koppel with the Odense Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Nicolae Moldoveanu.

The album opens with the Saxophone Concerto No. 1, a three-movement work that ranges from the serene and introspective to the lively and energetic. The first movement's slow sections frame a dramatic central Largo, while the final movement builds to an exhilarating Allegro agitato. Concerto No. 2 expands the scope with five movements, including a playful scherzo and a dazzling finale that showcases the orchestra's brilliance.

Koppel's compositions are known for their rich harmonies and inventive orchestration, and these concertos are no exception. The saxophone, often associated with jazz and popular music, is given a prominent and virtuosic role, demonstrating its potential as a classical solo instrument. The orchestral writing is equally impressive, with a kaleidoscope of colors and textures that support and complement the saxophone's voice.

This album is a testament to Anders Koppel's unique voice as a composer, blending his background in jazz and classical music to create works that are both accessible and sophisticated. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Saxophone Concertos" offers a rewarding and engaging listening experience. With a duration of just over an hour, it's an album that demands to be heard in its entirety, revealing new details and nuances with each listen.

June 1, 2006

2006 Dacapo

About Anders Koppel

Anders Koppel, born in Copenhagen in 1947, is a versatile Danish composer and musician whose career spans over five decades. He is renowned for his eclectic style that seamlessly blends classical, world, rock, and jazz influences. Koppel's journey began with the co-founding of the iconic rock group Savage Rose in 1967, where he played alongside his brother Thomas. His musical prowess extends to the trio Bazaar, which he was a part of from 1976 to 2012, and the trio Koppel-Andersen-Koppel, featuring his son, saxophonist Benjamin Koppel.

Koppel's compositions are vast and varied, including scores for over 150 films, 50 theatrical plays, and three musicals. He has also composed for eight ballets for Nyt Dansk Danseteater. His work has earned him two Danish film awards, the Robert, for best film score. Beyond his solo and collaborative projects, Koppel has written numerous concertos for various solo instruments, often tailored for his son Benjamin. His partnership with Henrik Dam Thomsen has produced a wealth of notable projects, including music for the ensemble Mad Cows Sing and the Copenhagen Cello Quartet.

Growing up in a musically rich environment, with his father Herman D. Koppel being one of Denmark's most significant composers and pianists, Anders Koppel has carried on a legacy of musical excellence. His home, filled with art and memories, reflects his deep connection to creativity and inspiration. Koppel's ability to evoke emotion through his compositions makes him a standout figure in the world of music, continually discovering new sounds and pushing artistic boundaries.