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The baritone saxophone has got to be one of the gruffest instruments around. Its deep growling tone and monumental appearance will catch everybody’s eyes and ears. You cannot play it without making a statement! I couldn’t resist writing booming basslines and jazzy rhythms in the crazy-fast first movement, but already there are episodes devoted to an uncharacteristic though surprisingly sweet lyricism. This cantabile tone is exploited even more in the reflective slow movement, with counterpart provided by the evocative arpeggiation and silky melodic lines of the piano. For a finale, the bari sax departs again from its rough reputation to play triumphantly soaring melodies in seven beats per bar, a lively asymmetrical meter.
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