Kayleigh Huelin Music

New Gershwin arrangements for saxophone quartet

New this month - bringing the 1930s back!

I am a big fan of music from decades past, as is evidenced by the type of arrangements I like to write! I feel that saxophonists are sometimes a bit spoiled for choice when it comes to popular music, as the instrument features so prominently in a lot of modern music - from 1950s rock 'n' roll to the cheesy solos of the eighties, I love it all.

I do, however, hold a special place in my heart for American popular music from the first half of the twentieth century, especially songs from films and musicals. I was never a very good pianist, but my book of George Gershwin and Cole Porter songs was well-thumbed - and the music still captivates me now. In some ways I think it fascinates me more today than when I was younger, as I can now appreciate the complexities of the melodies, harmonies and rhythms better. That is one of the joys of listening to music - you can always discover something new in it.

Gershwin's songs in particular work very well for saxophone quartet, and I have arranged a few of his most well-known - 'Summertime' and 'They Can't Take That Away From Me' - and I hope to do some more soon. Why not check them out and add a bit of Broadway sparkle to your repertoire!

Do you have a favourite era of popular music, and want some arrangements for a saxophone ensemble? Why not get in touch, I am always happy to hear suggestions of what to arrange next!

01/06/2018