Decca Records has released Stravaganza, a new album of works by composer Sir Karl Jenkins. Featuring his saxophone concerto of the same name – written for and performed by star saxophonist Jess Gillam – the album also includes a vibrant reimagining of Sir Karl’s beloved work 'Palladio', heard here in a brand-new orchestration by the composer...

Stravaganza features two of Karl Jenkins' works (spread over 7 tracks - 41 min, 29 sec). 'Palladio' is a 3-part piece (19 min, 13 sec) which sees the composer reimagine his 1995 string orchestra composition with a full orchestra.

'Stravaganza', which means "eccentric" in Italian, consists of four parts (22 min, 16 sec). It explores themes of carnival and extravagant fantasy and was written especially for saxophonist Jess Gillam (who plays on this recording), inspired by her experience of first trying a saxophone at a carnival centre in her native Cumbria.

If, like me, you are drawn to deeply melodic, melancholic pieces, then you'll totally love 'Palladio Reimagined - Vivace' and 'Stravaganza - Dreams & Drones'. Personally I'd have purchased this album for just these two pieces alone.

Jenkins never disappoints and seems to go from strength to strength as he gets older. This is a delicate, richly rewarding collection of emotionally rewarding pieces.

10

Darren Rea