Frank Martin and the Saxophone

Immerse yourself in the rich, expressive world of Frank Martin's compositions, reimagined for the saxophone in the album "Frank Martin and the Saxophone." Released on January 1, 2012, this captivating collection showcases the versatility and depth of Martin's work, expertly adapted for the saxophone by virtuosos like Christoph Enzel and Arno Bornkamp. The album spans nearly six decades of Martin's creative output, from the poignant "Ballade for tenor saxophone and orchestra" (originally for trombone, composed between 1940-1963) to the intricate "Sonata da Chiesa" (originally for viola d'amore, adapted for soprano saxophone and organ in 2006). The "Trois Danses," originally composed for oboe in 1970, are presented here in a stunning new guise for soprano saxophone, harp, string quartet, and string orchestra, with Enzel's 2005 adaptations bringing a fresh perspective to these evocative pieces. With a running time of 58 minutes, this album is a testament to Martin's enduring influence and the saxophone's ability to convey a wide range of emotions and textures. Whether you're a longtime fan of Martin's music or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling exploration of his compositions through the lens of the saxophone.