Three Dances

Three Dances for Baritone Saxophone and Piano was commissioned by saxophone artist Lynn Klock, a celebrated patron of new music. The choice of baritone saxophone provides a masculine, full-bodied voice for this set of pieces. The movements retain some of the rhythmic character and spirit of their dance names with the addition of a contemporary pitch language and the extended artistry available from modern instruments and performers. Includes: "Quickstep-Romp," a challenging, marchlike movement with a snappy motive contrasted with scale passages; "Air," a graceful, contrasting song in a moderate triple meter; and "Hornpipe-Rondo," a lively dance with a returning refrain that keeps the movement bounding vigorously forward.