PRESENTS FROM PARIS TO NEW YORK

KANGAROO VALLEY HALL SATURDAY 4TH MAY 2024 5 PM  

Nexas Quartet stands as a trailblazing saxophone ensemble known for redefining the boundaries of chamber music. Comprising saxophonists Michael Duke, Andrew Smith, Nathan Henshaw, and Jay Byrnes, the quartet has garnered widespread recognition for their exceptional musicianship and unique artistic approach. 

Founded in 2002 the ensemble has a passion for versatility that seamlessly presents multiple genres of music whilst captivating audiences with their dynamic performances. Their innovative interpretations and bold programming showcase the saxophone's expressive range and adaptability. In late 19th century Paris, Claude Debussy was immersed in a vibrant cultural scene, a rich tapestry of Impressionism, Symbolism and Japonism. This artistic ferment encouraged Debussy to break away from the conventional structures of music and use new scales, exotic rhythms, unconventional harmonies and harmonic progressions. This was in the service of creating an image of a scene through the sound colour and texture rather than through melody. Atmosphere and the sensuality, with an exploration of inner emotions was his distinctive style.This new revolutionary approach inspired a new wave of creativity in American composers. Gershwin known for blending classical and jazz elements drew inspiration from Debussy’s explorations of colour, texture and harmonic language into his own works creating a unique fusion of European impressionism and American Jazz. Debussy laid the foundation for a new era of American music which resonates with audiences today.

FROM PARIS TO NEW YORK featured a delightful program of works including

Andante and Scherzo - Eugene Bozza

Clair de Lune - Claude Debussy

A Rousseau Gallery - Ian Whitney

Quatour - Faustin and Maurice Jeanjean

La Mer - Trenet

American in Paris - Gershwin

Lullaby - Gershwin

Three Preludes - Gershwin

Summertime - Gershwin

Les chaussettes de Jonathan - Michael Duke