Apollo

This concerto for soprano saxophone and wind ensemble is based on the tragedy of the Apollo 1 mission in which a fire swept through the command module during a preflight test on January 27, 1967. All three astronauts on board were killed, including Gus Grissom, the commander. Extensive use of contemporary sounds and effects seeks to portray the events of that day as experienced by Grissom; the work is dedicated to his memory. Stunning writing for both soloist and ensemble, this work is a wonderful addition to the repertoire.