Hi all,
Well it's been quite hectic here for a while due to various things. I'm involved with helping arrange music for a new musical that will premier on easter weekend. It's been challenging but rewarding too working with a nice group of people, so i'm looking forward to hearing the end result.
After the Christmas break, and distinct lack of music making on my part, inspiration seems to have hit a high and I seem to have so many ideas for new pieces and projects but not enough time. As I have never studied composition I have decided to start composing some short pieces in the style of various composers, studying some of their works. I believe that this will help me break from any comfort zone that we often find ourselves in.
I am pleased with a recent project; a Tango inspired by Piazzolla (Argentinian tango composer) and a couple of good friends. Myself and Alistair Parnell began recording it this morning which was enjoyable, and with a little more work / tweaks, i'll be very happy with the result.
I have been musing why players can produce such different sounds on the same equipment, and pupils have also asked similar questions. I believe that music is not merely a mechanical passtime, it is something far far deeper. Yes, although the right equipment helps, your desired sound needs to be found inside you. I find that people's personalities usually show through their playing, so if they are naturally quiet and timid this will show, similarly a naturally chatismatic and bold person may fight a little more to achieve a soft controlled phrase etc. It is so important to listen to as many recordings as you can, and when you find 'the' sound then study it in detail, vibrato speed, tone colours etc as much and as frequently as you can.
p.s if anyone was intrigued as to my 'set up' I play;
Selmer series 80 II alto sax - selmer C* mouthpiece (or selmer soloist C**)
Selmer series III soprano sax - selmer S80 D mouthpiece
Boosey & Hawkes 1010 clarinet - original 1010 mouthpiece
Yamaha 574 open holed flute.
