Farr-Sonata for Alto Sax and Timpani (SP)-5T/ASX

Sonata for Timpani & Alto Saxophone was written for my first-year composition exam at the Grieg Academy of Music and was premiered by myself and René Wiik of the Norwegian Army Band, Bergen.Each of the three movements represent a considerable influences. The first movement, "The Funky Flagellants", is a Stravinsky parodying quirky rhythms. The 2nd, "The ill-treated insomniacs", John Coltranes twisting and lamenting melodies. I wrote the last movement after working with Steve Reich at the Trondheim International Chamber Music Festival. His compositional technique and energy in "Drumming" gave me much food for thought and was a great inspiration.

Number of Players: 2
Difficulty: Grade 5
Instrumentation:

Player 1: Alto Saxophone

Player 2: Timpani

Craig Farr, born 1975 in Hertford, England. He currently lives in Bergen, Norway, where he holds a position as percussionist in the Norwegian Army Band, Bergen. As well as maintaining a fruitful career as a performer Craig also studies composition at the Grieg Academy of music.His compositions have been performed at the Bergen International Festival as well as the Durham Brass Festival (UK), Avgarde, Borealis & BrassWind festivals (N). His compositions have inspired commissions from percussionists and wind players as well as professional wind bands, brass bands and festivals.