Sax workshop is a record breaker!
“It was wonderful to see so many enthusiastic saxophone players turn out for the workshop"
A saxophone workshop organised by Market Harborough’s Phoenix Saxophone Orchestra last weekend attracted a record 37 saxophonists, who came to play and learn from professional saxophonists Karen Street and Andy Tweed.
This is the sixth open workshop run by Phoenix, and the group was delighted to welcome Karen, Andy and 24 guest saxophonists to join 13 Phoenix members for the event, which was held at Church Langton Community Hall on 19 April.
The gathered ensemble included six different types of saxophone, from the tiny sopranino, through the more commonly seen soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones, to the giant bass sax.
The musicians played through several pieces of music including two original pieces by Karen Street – Avalon Suite and Carnival, Karen’s arrangement of Moon River and the James Rae composition Two Cinematic Impressions.
Throughout the day, Karen and Andy also gave valuable tips and advice on different elements of ensemble playing and saxophone technique, and the day ended with Karen and Andy performing two pieces, with Karen on accordion and Andy on soprano saxophone.
Karen Street said: “It was wonderful to see so many enthusiastic saxophone players turn out for the workshop. Andy and I were really impressed with how hard everyone worked, rising to all the challenges we set them. All credit to Phoenix Sax Orchestra’s organisation, and what a lovely location too!”
Stephen Bashforth, Chair of Phoenix Saxophone Orchestra, said: “We’d like to thank Andy and Karen for a wonderfully enjoyable day. The number of delegates was our best yet and everyone who attended was both inspired and delighted. The choice of music was spot on and gave everyone a balanced mix of challenge, complexity and fun.”
Phoenix Saxophone Orchestra’s next concert is at St Mary Magdalene Church, Cottingham at 7pm on Saturday 30 May. Tickets are £12 each including a glass of fizz and canapes. See cottinghamnews.co.uk/event/pso-2026 for booking details.