Martyn Brabbins, Leif Tse and Sam Scheer conductors
Megan Glover saxophone
RCM Philharmonic
Wagner Overture from Tannhäuser (Dresden version)
Dubois Concerto for Alto Saxophone and String Orchestra
Holst The Perfect Fool ballet music op 39
Martyn Brabbins, Prince Consort Professor of Conducting, is joined by two RCM conductors in a programme of orchestral music depicting two very different stories: Wagner’s opera Tannhäuser and The Perfect Fool ballet music by RCM alumnus Gustav Holst.
Heard here in its earlier ’Dresden’ version, the overture to Wagner’s Tannhäuser conjures up the opera’s themes of sacred and earthly love, as well as love’s redemptive power. In total contrast, the introductory ballet music to The Perfect Fool features dances invoking earth, water and fire.
These works frame the virtuosic Alto Saxophone Concerto by Dubois, performed by RCM Concerto Competition winner Megan Glover – a rare opportunity to hear the saxophone take centre stage in a classical work.
