Saxophone show with a difference

Published on 6th November 2008 in Ents

SELBY Town Hall will host a show with a difference next week as the National Saxophone Ensemble of Great Britain tread the venue's boards.

Born out of the world-renowned National Saxophone Choir, the ensemble features a 20-strong line up who play no less than five different shapes and sizes from the saxophone family.

The group has successfully fused the many facets of this hugely versatile instrument into a lively group comprising some of the nations finest players, and on November 16 they play at Selby Town Hall as part of a weekend visit to Yorkshire.

Members range from music students and top lecturers to an orchestral manager and even a wannabe golf pro!

The music they perform reflects the diversity of membership with classical pops such as Handel's 'Hallelujah Chorus' and Grieg's 'The Hall of the Mountain King' rubbing shoulders with jazzier works such as The Devil's Rag and new commissions.

The NSE is rapidly developing its own musical identity under the leadership of musical director Chris Gumbley with an independent repertoire and concert programme which has led to the group premiering a brand new commission at Beverley Minster the day before they arrive in Selby.

Town Council arts officer Chris Jones said: "This is something a little bit different and more than a little bit exciting for us!"

"I'm struggling to think of a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than being entertained by 20 stunning saxophone players easing out a repertoire that covers classical, jazz and pop. This one is a real treat, so get yourself along."