Frederick Fennell - Winds Of Indiana: Saxophone Vocalise (LP)

Frederick Fennell, renowned conductor and advocate for wind music, presents a captivating collection of works in "Winds Of Indiana: Saxophone Vocalise." Released on January 1, 1995, under the Delos label, this album spans a little over an hour, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that showcase the versatility and expressiveness of the saxophone within a wind ensemble context.

The album opens with a masterful arrangement of George Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess," followed by Malcolm Arnold's "Diversion" and Max Bruch's "Kol Nidrei, Op. 47." Each piece is meticulously arranged for saxophone and wind ensemble, highlighting the instrument's lyrical and technical prowess. Puccini's "Tosca Fantasy" and Massenet's "Thais, Act II: Meditation" further enrich the program with their operatic grandeur.

A significant portion of the album is dedicated to the world premiere recording of the Alto Saxophone Concerto by American composer Michael Koryta, arranged by Thomas Kynaston. The concerto's three movements—Allegro energico, Andante maestoso, and Andante espressivo - Allegro giocoso—demonstrate the saxophone's dynamic range and emotional depth.

Complementing these works is the "Fantasie concertante" by Jean Françaix, adding a touch of French elegance to the diverse repertoire. Frederick Fennell's expert conducting and the ensemble's polished performances make this album a testament to the beauty and breadth of wind music.