Printed set (Score & Parts)
Bb Soprano Saxophone
Eb Alto Saxophone
Bb Tenor Saxophone
Eb Baritone Saxophone
Saxonic Dance for Quartet was commissioned by Shiro-to Saxophone Ensemble and completed in September, 2001. "Saxonic Dance" is a play on words anthropomorphizing a dancing saxophone. With a catchy melody and a variety of rhythms, the piece features colorful characteristic saxophone tones.
The song has three parts, being fast, slow, and fast.
The prelude begins with a story that saxophones have been enchanted and given human consciousness. The theme by alto saxophone is then played as if dancing, followed by soprano saxophone. In the middle, a slow, soft baroque dance reflects love for each other. A powerful rhythm appears, and it develops excitingly as if four saxophones are competing. Finally the theme reappears, and the scene ends with the spell is left and the saxophone returns to its original form.
The piece doesn't require advanced technique, and it can be enjoyed by a wide range of musicians.
(Akira Toda)
