Wild Velvet
A Concerto for Baritone Saxophone and Chamber Ensemble
Wild Velvet is a concerto for baritone saxophone and chamber ensemble. Its name reflects the smooth and "velvety" tone of the saxophone, especially the baritone sax, but also its potential for wild and powerful sounds.
The work is divided into three continuous parts, reflecting the traditional concerto form-- a bombastic opening characterized by repeated gestures, a passacaglia, and a return to the opening thematic material.
The work also incorporates the Fibonacci sequence, through the use of so-called “attack sets,” rhythmic durations, and pitch material. This mathematical sequence is known to be present in art, architecture, and even occurs naturally in plant life. Like the sequence, the fun, “groovy,” and sometimes, chaotic elements of the concerto are often governed by a strict order.
Wild Velvet was commissioned by a consortium led by Andy Hall. Mr. Hall is joined by Joseph Murphy, Erik Hagström, Don-Paul Kahl, Jesse Dochnahl, Karalyn Aprill, Matthew Kobberstad, Bradley Schilit, and Keith Petersen.
The composition of this work was supported by a Fellowship at the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts.
The work is divided into three continuous parts, reflecting the traditional concerto form-- a bombastic opening characterized by repeated gestures, a passacaglia, and a return to the opening thematic material.
The work also incorporates the Fibonacci sequence, through the use of so-called “attack sets,” rhythmic durations, and pitch material. This mathematical sequence is known to be present in art, architecture, and even occurs naturally in plant life. Like the sequence, the fun, “groovy,” and sometimes, chaotic elements of the concerto are often governed by a strict order.
Wild Velvet was commissioned by a consortium led by Andy Hall. Mr. Hall is joined by Joseph Murphy, Erik Hagström, Don-Paul Kahl, Jesse Dochnahl, Karalyn Aprill, Matthew Kobberstad, Bradley Schilit, and Keith Petersen.
The composition of this work was supported by a Fellowship at the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts.