Wednesday 2 October 2024
Saxophone Quartet Brings the Power of Fixed Media to Life at St Mary's Music School
Last Friday, St Mary's Music School welcomed saxophone teacher Andrew Somerville and his saxophone quartet - comprising Dean Garrity, Jack Halforty, and Richard Scholfield - for an inspiring performance practice session that introduced our pupils to fixed media in music.
The quartet treated pupils to two works by the celebrated Dutch composer Jacob ter Veldhuis (also known as JacobTV), whose unique style blends live performance with pre-recorded soundtracks based on speech patterns.
The concept of fixed media, where live musicians perform alongside electronic or pre-recorded tracks, was explained in clear and engaging terms, allowing the pupils to not only enjoy the music but also gain valuable insight into this increasingly popular genre. The quartet combined highly technical musicianship with a "grooving soundtrack based on speech melody" that kept pupils and staff captivated throughout the afternoon.
The quartet seamlessly blended their live instrumental playing with electronic elements. The composer Jacob ter Veldhuis is known for his compelling and often playful use of speech and rhythm and these pieces were a perfect demonstration of how fixed media can expand the expressive range of instrumental music.
St Mary's Music School would like to extend its sincere thanks to Andrew, Dean, Jack, and Richard for taking the time to share their expertise and artistry with our pupils. We look forward to more enriching experiences that challenge and inspire our young musicians.
