The art of musical transcription and arrangement : benefits and challenges experienced by a classical saxophonist

Abstract

This dissertation discusses the relevance of transcribed and arranged music as pedagogical tools for saxophonists. The author has chosen a set of six works which provide a holistic challenge of technical and interpretational work which shall be performed for the undergraduate final recital. The chosen works are the following; Johann Sebastian Bach - Cello Suite No. 2, arranged by Trent Kynaston (1995), Gaspar Cassado - Toccata, arranged by Samuel Mallia (2017), Robert Schumann – Fünf Stücke im Volkston, arranged by Didier Vadrot (1997), Gabriel Fauré – Fantaisie Op. 79, arranged by Daniel Deffayet (1997), Sergei Prokofiev – Visions Fugitives Op. 22, arranged by Howard Harrison (1989) and Charles Camilleri – Tango Ankiyin, arranged by Samuel Mallia (2017). Each work was approached through three main steps; the understanding of relevant sociohistoric information inspired through familiarisation with research findings, the analysis of each work in relation to the choice of interpretation, and the methodological approach taken in defining and overcoming technical obstacles. Key challenges such as understanding performance practices, translating musical intentions across mediums through appropriate musical arrangement and interpretation, and technical difficulties in areas such as articulation, endurance and intonation are discussed. These aspects are tackled in relation to the relevant works and tentative solutions are suggested. Ultimately this study aims to encourage musicians, particularly saxophonists, to make use of arranged and transcribed works as part of their professional development, highlighting the resulting benefits.