Sonata, Op. 168

Sonata Op. 168 by Camille Saint-Saens, arranged for Bari Sax Solo with Piano. Although written in 1921, the final instrumental work by Saint-Saens, the Sonata Op. 168 is stylistically firmly rooted in the nineteenth century. After a lyrical and highly expressive first movement, the soloist is plunged into a seriously challenging scherzo, where the superb clarity of Saint-Saens's writing makes the music even more demanding not least with a low-dynamic, chromatic ascent into the altissimo range at the end of the movement. The gentle mood of the third movement slow and lyrical, with a brief, joyous concluding section provides a welcome contrast. The piano part is beautifully crafted and often very sparse which allows to the soloist the fullest range of dynamics and color. The Sonata Op. 168 in G major was originally written for bassoon and piano. This arrangement is for baritone saxophone and piano. It is in the original keys. The solo part extends well into the altissimo range. The saxophone part includes alternative notes for those not wanting to play altissimo. This work is for ambitious or advanced players. The piano part is moderately difficult. The sonata has three movements: 1. Allegro moderato (about 2:45") 2. Allegro scherzando (about 4") 3. Molto Adagio Allegro moderato (around 6")