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Cousins:
Concerto for Saxophone &
Trumpet
featuring
Rodney Mack & Branford Marsalis
www.rodneymack.com
www.branfordmarsalis.com
www.stephensonmusic.com
Rodney Mack has teamed up with world-renowned jazz saxophonist Branford Marsalis to premiere the new work Cousins: Concerto for Saxophone and Trumpet. Greeted with a standing ovation and extended applause at its premiere with the World Youth Symphony Orchestra, the concerto was composed by James Stephenson:
"At first I was a little daunted by the challenge to compose for a "jazz" saxophonist and a "classical" trumpeter. I didn't want the piece to be "crossover" - just good music. Recalling Rodney from over 20 years ago, I could still remember his pure sound and considerable strength, as well as his facile agility around the instrument. When Rodney spoke of Branford's overall talent on the saxophone (I already knew his jazz resume, of course), and his technical abilities, I was ready to get to work." - James Stephenson
Review of the world premiere (Traverse City Record-Eagle) -
"The focal point of the evening was a world premiere composition by Interlochen alumnus James Stephenson, "Concerto for Saxophone and Trumpet"....Marsalis and Mack entered the stage, each loaded with instruments - Marsalis with alto and tenor saxes and Mack with a C trumpet, a B-flat cornet and a piccolo trumpet. Stephenson's composition...includes moments of delicious solo work that required virtuosic technique from both soloists. The opening section dances along in jaunty fashion with soloists exchanging comments, then coming together in harmony. The middle section is quite lyrical, offering each one ample time for melodious expression. The third section is a lively dance, which calls for a high level of skill. The solo parts throughout the piece are well thought out, and offer both musical and technical challenges to each. And the orchestra accompaniment provides a subtle but solid backdrop for the solos, but also has its moments in the sun. The work is very listenable, and as these two soloists continue their collaborations, this concerto will be a favorite." - Joe Rice, Special to the Record-Eagle
