The Wolford/Rosenblum Duo

More Than Sax: Baroque, Blues and Beyond


  1. Piece in forme de Habanera - MAURICE RAVEL
  2. Sonata in Jazz - WERNER HEIDER
  3. City Called Heaven - NEGRO SPIRITUAL, arr. CHUCK ISRAELS
  4. Shetl Voices - IVAN ROSENBLUM
  5. Reflections on Raga Rodi - CHARLIE BUEL
  6. Sonata in F Minor - WILLIAM BABELL
  7. Lullaby - CARL ANTON WIRTH

After listening to this CD beginning to end, I had one thing to say... WOW! This CD is a must-have for all aspiring classical saxophonists, especially those looking for a great format in which to perform. This album is lush presentation of some very challenging material, both technically and stylistically. Dale Wolford has phenominal tone on alto and especially soprano. Notes which can be troublesome to play, especially those below low D and above altissimo B, seem effortless for Dale. He also has an incredible dynamic and tonal palette at his command.

The material on this CD is well-selected and represents a broad spectrum of musical stylings to choose from; all of it performed equally well by both performers and guest vocalist Stephanie Friedman. It should be understood that this CD is unmistakably "classical" in its approach and performance. All of the rhythms and notes on this CD sparkle with a polished, practiced edge, leaving no ambiguity whatsoever.

High points of the CD include the solo alto piece by Charlie Buel, entitled Reflections on Raga Todi. This piece features some extended technique and altissimo which are flawlessly performed. It also offers a chance to really hear the warm timbral characteristics of Dale's alto playing.

 Another high point is the Sonata in F Minor by William Babell. This is some of the finest soprano playing that I have heard in quite a while. Dale's richness of sound is something I wish I heard more of in other soprano players, especially in jazz. He proves without a doubt that the soprano does not have to sound thin and whiny.

Throughout this review I have somewhat neglected the other half of the duo, Ivan Rosenblum. This is not for lack of respect or admiration. His piano playing is most likely the envy of every accompanist that hears this recording. His technique is flawless and intuitively sensitive in all of the right places. Don't let this CD escape your collection!


If you would like to order this CD, click HERE to visit the Wolford/Rosenblum Duo Home Page.


(C)1995 Jason DuMars, ISHP