Otto M. Schwarz

Crossover Suite No. 1

Crossover Suite No. 1 comprises five stylistically very diverse movements.

1. INTRODUCTION:

A brisk opening leads to a bass groove on baritone saxophone. Various animated stylistic elements such as finger snaps are contrasted with 'straighter' elements familiar from march music.

2. VIENNESE WALTZ:

A waltz in a minor key, with the characteristic and unmistakable accompaniment in the Viennese style.

3. ROUNDABOUT:

Roundabout is a rondo with recurring motifs and a point of rest in the adagio.

4. STOMPS AND CLAPS:

As the name suggests, the work is performed with the help of hands and feet. Body percussion alternates with technically demanding passages.

5. FINALE:

A rapid final movement with a dolce middle part leads to a furious closing section with changes of meter and some dynamic surprises.

Each movement can also stand on its own, but when performed as a complete suite this composition shows off the full breadth and capability of a saxophone quartet.