McAllister Saxophone Encore Premieres

Project Encore, Volume 2 Timothy McAllister, alto/soprano saxophonesLiz Ames, piano. Neuma Records 235 Total Time:  67:48

Recording:   ****/****

Performance: ****/****

Timothy McAllister’s new release features seventeen short works for saxophone from a diverse collection of composers.  The seventeen pieces on this compilation were all commissioned by the Grammy winning virtuoso and provides a window into the virtuosic potential for the instrument.  The most recognizable contributors are Jennifer Higdon (“A Fine Line”) and Wynton Marsalis (“Book Bossa Nova”).

In this second volume, McAllister’s lyrical playing provides a warm entry into the contemporary styles of the composers chosen.  Most all are accessible compositions that are well-tracked to provide contrasts of tempo and virtuosic moments.  The result is an enjoyable hour or so of music. Liz Ames provides excellent support here in piano accompaniments that require a little jazz rhythmic precision with interesting impressionistic and virtuosic flourishes of their own.  The way the accompaniment is treated throughout the pieces here provides some of the more interesting contrasts along the way.  When there are some slight experimental shifts (as in Rob Buckland’s powerful “Fall(ing)”), it all feels quite natural (as in “Dance” by Adam Schoenberg).  Justin Bush’s “Dreams of a Better Tomorrow” is a particularly poignant piece.  The album can easily be recommended for saxophone players looking for some potential additions for recitals as these are all quite excellent additions to that repertoire. 

Neuma’s physical release includes a cardboard holder with a detailed booklet insert which includes bios of the performers and details about each composer and their works as well.  Overall, an interesting collection of world premieres.