A CITY MOVING FORWARD (2019)
MVT. 1 | THE RUBBER CITY
MVT. 2 | ELEGY
MVT. 3 | CONSTRUCTION
(Approximate Duration | 17’10’’)
In the fall of 2018, friend and colleague Justin Evangelist approached me to write a solo work for Alto Saxophone and Piano. I was somewhat reluctant to work on a solo work since I had recently finished a tuba and piano solo weeks prior. However, the potential for exploration of this instrument gave me a newfound excitement. Being that this was going to be my first engagement writing for this instrument outside of a concert band setting, I consulted with Associate professor of Saxophone at the University of Akron Dr. Todd Gaffke about some of the techniques and limitations of the instrument.
Growing up in a suburb of Akron, Ohio (Wadsworth), Akron has always been a place of fascination for its historical roots. During the time of writing (and the publishing of this work), Akron was going through a major and much-needed downtown renovation. The city’s slogan being, AKRON: A CITY MOVING FORWARD. This inspirational and optimistic motto blossomed into becoming the inspiration behind the music.
At the time of this work’s conception, The University of Akron Saxophone Studio had experienced the tragic and unexpected loss of undergraduate studio member Anthony Fimognari. Anthony was a musician of phenomenal potential with a warm and radiant sound. He was also known by many for his spirited and endearing character. This work is dedicated to the memory of him.
Growing up in a suburb of Akron, Ohio (Wadsworth), Akron has always been a place of fascination for its historical roots. During the time of writing (and the publishing of this work), Akron was going through a major and much-needed downtown renovation. The city’s slogan being, AKRON: A CITY MOVING FORWARD. This inspirational and optimistic motto blossomed into becoming the inspiration behind the music.
At the time of this work’s conception, The University of Akron Saxophone Studio had experienced the tragic and unexpected loss of undergraduate studio member Anthony Fimognari. Anthony was a musician of phenomenal potential with a warm and radiant sound. He was also known by many for his spirited and endearing character. This work is dedicated to the memory of him.