A discussion of saxophone competitions and their repertoire
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Abstract
This document presents competitor and repertoire data collected from four international saxophone competitions – the Adolphe Sax International Competition, Jean-Marie Londeix International Saxophone Competition, International Saxophone Competition “Josip Nochta,” and the International Saxophone Competition Nova Gorica – and evaluates repertoire choices as to how they might reveal the evolving expectations facing young saxophonists. By comparing the success of competitors performing selected works throughout all four competitions, this paper demonstrates which works are preferred by both the performers and the jury members. Works for saxophone in many different performance mediums are discussed, including saxophone and piano, with orchestra, and unaccompanied saxophone. Particular attention is paid to the rounds in which saxophonists are allowed to select any work with limited or no restrictions. A discussion of those pieces that have been the most effective works in these competition settings overall, and what these works share in common, also takes place.