Nikolai Kapustin's "Saxophone Chamber Music" is a captivating exploration of classical piano and saxophone arrangements, released posthumously in 2020. This album showcases Kapustin's unique blend of classical and jazz influences, demonstrating his mastery of both genres. The collection features arrangements by Christoph Enzel, transforming Kapustin's original works for saxophone ensembles.
The album opens with the Piano Quintet, Op. 89, a four-movement work that has been skillfully adapted for saxophone quartet and piano. This piece is followed by the String Quartet, Op. 88, also arranged for saxophone quartet, offering a rich and dynamic listening experience. The album concludes with the Duet for Alto Saxophone & Cello, Op. 99, a three-movement work that highlights the expressive capabilities of the alto saxophone and cello duo.
Performers include the Clair-Obscur Saxophone Quartet, Elisaveta Blumina on piano, and Christoph Enzel on saxophone, among others. Their interpretations bring Kapustin's compositions to life, showcasing the depth and versatility of his musical language. With a total runtime of 54 minutes, this album is a testament to Kapustin's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the world of classical and jazz music.