French composer Guillaume Connesson claims his musical inspiration comes from all ages and all directions, from François Couperin to Igor Stravinsky, to Olivier Messiaen to John Adams and John Williams. He has composed in most genres, but as yet not in opera. He is currently Composer in Association with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

Connesson composed A Kind of Trane in 2015 for the World Saxophone Congress in Strasbourg, where it was premiered by three famous saxophonists, each playing one movement.

The concerto is an homage to John Coltrane (hence the name) emulating his incredible technique and free-wheeling style of playing. While the first and second movements try to bring out the emotional and technical capabilities of the saxophone, the third brings out the instrument's dance capabilities. The first and second movements in particular, show a strong influence of Debussy and Ravel, while the third emulates American jazz styles, and is technically challenging.

Program notes by:

Joseph & Elizabeth Kahn

Wordpros@mindspring.com

www.wordprosmusic.com