A Conductor’s and Performer’s Guide to Steven Bryant’s Concerto for Alto Saxophone
Chester Jenkins · OhioLink ETD Center (Ohio Library and Information Network) · 2018
The purpose of this work is to examine the history and compositional elements of Steven Bryant's Concerto for Alto Saxophone and Wind Ensemble, as well as to provide analysis and performance considerations for the work.The personal and idiosyncratic nature of the composition is important to understand for an effective performance of the concerto.Bryant drew upon limited material for creation of the composition, and an understanding of these elements will help provide a clearer conception of the work for both the performer and conductor.A realization of these factors have been derived from an analysis of the concerto, as well as through interviews conducted with those involved with the commission and premiere performance.iii Dedication To Heather, without your support, I would not have even started this venture, let alone completed it.Those who have taught me first and foremost how to play the saxophone through the years have played a significant role in my life and growth as a musician and as a person.Thanks to Tim Volstad who got me started, Jerry Rodgers who fixed my many issues, Harold Ashenfelter who set me free, Matt James who helped me better understand style, James Hill who taught me history, and Michael Torres