Best tone he fits with the whole thing perfectly he doesnt stick out he blends in even though you can hear him perfectly perfect volume best version of the solo. Great altisimo. Perfect!!!
I studied under Claude T Smith in the early 80s in Oklahoma when he was launching Fantasia. I played clarinet, he worked us hard until my lip was bleeding. A musical genius.
an all natural played not from sheets of written notes but a performance directed orchestrated souly from the heart. that instrument was plugged into a Devine link
Although Kenneth Tse did a remarkble job, I think Otis Murphy has a better interpretation. Not to mention this accompanying ensemble is WAY better than the one accompanying Kenneth. Many times they cover him up. This ensemble is way better balanced. A nice, dark robust sound.
I saw him play this live with the Navy band at the saxophone symposium this past week! It was honestly one of the most mind blowing performances I've ever heard.
The perfect concerto for the saxophone, played masterfully by Mr. Murphy. The best version of this piece and the go to reference for future performers.
False. Case in point: what you just said. Murphy plays an EX. In fact a lot of classical saxophonists play EXs. Mark VIs are great but you see a lot more jazz players using them. Selmer Series II and IIIs, Yani 992 or similar, Yamaha EXs, and High end Keilwerths are all excellent choices for anyone serious about performing. None of them are any better than another. It comes down to personal taste a that point.
Murphy is amazing, but can we talk about how stellar the band is?? They are incredible, wish they got more credit, or any credit lol-dont even know if this is tokyo kosei or some other japanese band
Might be controversial to say this but I prefer this performance over James Bargers' in 2012 at TMEA. Both are GREAT indeed! I just like this one more.
I saw him perform 2 days ago and yesterday, AND I got his autograph, this man is fantastic. If you get the privilege to ever hear him in person you are one lucky person. He is THE MOST AMAZING SAX PLAYER I HAVE EVER HEARD.
Still one of the most memorable experiences I ever had was playing clarinet right next to him when he did this piece for the Honor Band of America (Music for All) back in 2006
I wouldn't get a cannonball. Before you buy a horn try out as many as you can, like more then 4 different type. Then try out a couple different of the one you like the most.
@Keanan You have to admit learning fingerings for sax is more intuitive than most instruments (I am assuming from the comment you must play sax). I'm not saying it's any easier to master than any other instrument. Getting basic understanding, though is pretty easy.
Haha, I definitely agree (now) facemash. I think I was just being a French School elitist that day. One of the best things about music is that a lot of it is subjective, including instrument/model preference. In the last month or so, I've actually grown extremely fond of the Customs. :) and Otis Murphy only helps its case.
My saxophone teacher did a gig with Otis Murphy a couple of years ago where Murphy’s very pregnant wife was in the back of my saxophone teacher’s car and the air conditioning broke. (Keep in mind, it was in the middle of July and the weather was in the mid-80’s.)
trevinia turner It's not a bad piece to memorize at all, there's a ton of pieces in the repertoire like Dahl's concerto that are ridiculous to memorize
He played a concert at my uni tonight. It was unbelievable. You can't hear his keys and pads click if you are right in front of him. And I've never heard someone play with such genuine emotion.
@TheRealTAKO I think Kenneth's notes are a little more clear in some parts but he lacks emotion when playing, especially when it gets to to the song climax at around 5:05 - 5:51ish. That's just my personal opinion though. Both amazing players!