SmallTalX, in collaboration with the Franschhoek Theatre, will host a presentation on the classical saxophone on Wednesday January 24.
Well-known Capetonian saxophonist and conductor Liam Burden, will give a public lecture-demonstration, which will not only delve into the instrument’s history and repertoire, but will also showcase several contemporary solo compositions for saxophone.
As a prominent teacher and performer, Mr Burden’s advocacy for the classical saxophone is well-known.
While many associate the saxophone primarily with jazz, its roots are deeply intertwined with classical music. The instrument was invented by Belgian musician Adolphe Sax in the 1840s, and immediately saw use in European military bands.
It wasn’t long before the famous Paris Conservatoire hosted a saxophone professor, and composers began to write prominent orchestral and solo works featuring the instrument. Some famous composers who have written for the instrument are Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel, Georges Bizet, Sergei Prokovief, Dmitri Shostakovich, and Sergei Rachmaninoff.
Mr Burden’s lecture presentation will include performances of music by the celebrated Japanese composer Ryō Noda, as well as contemporary Australian composer Barry Cockcroft.
There will also be several vintage saxophones on display, dating from as far back as the 1940s. The session will conclude with a question-and-answer session.
Mr Burden teaches saxophone and clarinet at the Hugo Lambrechts Music Centre and Stellenbosch University.
He recently premièred Kevin Houben’s saxophone concerto, Legend of a Giant, with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra. In 2023, he made history as the first saxophonist appointed to the faculty of the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival.
Additionally, he served as a judge for the inaugural South African International Woodwind Competition, in addition to numerous other adjudication and examination roles.
Mr Burden pursued his saxophone studies under Dr Michael Ibrahim at West Virginia University and received a Rector’s Award for Excellent Achievement in Culture from Stellenbosch University during his undergraduate years, where he was mentored by the legendary Darryl Walters.
He has been a finalist in several prestigious national competitions, for both conducting and saxophone performance.
The presentation takes place at the Franschhoek Theatre on Wednesday January 24, at 7pm. Tickets cost R250, and include a glass of wine, snacks, and a Q&A with the speaker.
Bookings are essential, and can be made on the Franschhoek Theatre website at www.franschhoektheatre.co.za, or by email at hello@franschhoektheatre.co.za
For any further queries, contact Leila Shirley at 067 314 4059.
