an american patchwork (1998)
CD Program: Saxsounds
III (Diminishing Returns) for two alto saxophones with digital
delay and Shu Gath Mana for alto saxophone and DX7 Synth
(Marie Sierra, piano and DX7) by Steven Galante (b. 1953), The
Alex Set for solo saxophone by Daniel Asia (b. 1953), The
Seventh Healing Song of John Joseph (Blue) for alto saxophone
and tape by James DeMars (b. 1952), Meditation for alto
saxophone and piano by Walter Kaufmann (1907-1984), and Diversions
for alto saxophone and marimba (Khris Dodge, Marimba) by William
Penn (b. 1943).
"If you've been around Tucson long enough and are a fan of the saxophone, chances are you've sat entranced at some point or another listening to the fluid tones of Michael Hester....his latest solo release, An American Patchwork...is great listening all around, played with impeccable fluency and stylistic versatility." Dan Buckley, Tucson Citizen
"Michael Hester contributes substantially to recorded music for his instrument....The compositions exploit the saxophone's wide-ranging technical possibilities and tonal colors. They also bring out the best in a virtuoso musician....Hester's horn conquers...a killer CD." Ken Keuffel, The Arizona Daily Star
"I think it is a very fine disc. Sound and performances are excellent. My piece is wonderful...you have caught its flavor and character marvelously." Daniel Asia, The University of Arizona
"Bravo
on a great CD. The Galante is exceptional and really shows off
your playing. It's much more than a performance, a truly creative
approach. Likewise with the Healing Song, very expressive."
Dr. James DeMars, Arizona State University
"I thoroughly enjoyed your playing of both my pieces. You are a fine and sensitive musician... Many thanks for recording my work. I am flattered." Steven Galante
"Appropriately named, An American Patchwork, Hester's debut solo disc, explores a wide array of compositional styles and influences present in American contemporary music....requiring the utmost control of subtlety and nuance, which Dr. Hester fluently displays...an excellent performance. Michael Hester's playing on An American Patchwork is superb throughout and the recording quality and artwork is terrific...This recording is highly recommended." Timothy McAllister, The Saxophone Symposium, The annual journal of the North American Saxophone Alliance, Volume 24, 1999
Quilt, "Radiant Star," on CD cover was hand pieced and quilted by Judith Graves Hester
Recorded at Jim Brady Recording Studios in Tucson, Arizona
Also available at Amazon.com and Dorn Publications