Theodore Kerkezos, Yuri Simonov & London Symphony Orchestra - Légende: Theodore Kerkezos (2010)

The saxophone has a strange ‘semi-detached’ relationship with the symphony orchestra, and is widely considered to be more at home in a jazz setting. However, many composers have been seduced by the sound and wide range of colours and sonorities the instrument produces. From Glazunov’s concerto to presentday composers, the repertoire has grown to include some fascinating works.

This CD ‘Légende’ gathers together French works with a very Mediterranean feel.

The sultry sound of the saxophone is used to tremendous effect in Schmitt’s exotic Légende. Tomasi’s imposing concerto and the vibrant Tableaux de Provence by Paule Maurice will be discoveries for most listeners, and welcome ones as well.

Theodore Kerkezos is one of the leading saxophonists of his generation, and a champion of modern music. He is also active in preserving and bringing to a wider audience the repertoire for his instrument – much of which is little known.

This CD is a fascinating programme of unusual repertoire, and the highly evocative music conjures vivid images of the south of France.