Anyway Blues: 4 Saxophones SATBar Conductor Score & Parts

The blues idiom flows through all three movements, but Kronfuss explores it beyond the typical 12-bar template. Expect conversational saxophone dialogue, harmonic depth, and moments where the ensemble swings together, then fractures into independent voices before reuniting.

Intermediate to advanced saxophone quartets seeking contemporary blues repertoire with substance. College and community ensembles, as well as serious high school quartets, will find the three-movement scope and SAT-Baritone balance both challenging and rewarding.

• Balance the four voices carefully in the opening movement. The baritone sax anchors the harmonic foundation, but it should never overshadow the interplay between soprano and alto lines.
• Use the blues inflections and blue notes as opportunities for ensemble phrasing work. The composer expects sensitivity to micro-timing and articulation shifts between movements.
• Pay attention to section transitions. Since the work is through-composed, clear ensemble attacks and releases signal structural arrival points to the audience.

This work pairs well on concerts celebrating contemporary wind literature or blues-influenced classical writing. Program it alongside other saxophone quartet repertoire to showcase the range of the ensemble, or feature it in a set exploring how traditional American musical forms inspire modern composers.

• Blues articulation and phrasing conventions
• Ensemble balance across the full saxophone range (soprano to baritone)
• Through-composed form and structural listening
• Blues note intonation and ornamentation
• Ensemble coordination without a steady groove baseline