Arctic Saxophone

"Living in the Arctic for more than half of my life has certainly changed my perspectives. A region where the days never end during the summer months, and where the dark winter allows the sky to be filled with the play of the northern lights. I live in the city of Tromsø, about 500 km north of the Arctic Circle and about 2000 km south of the North Pole. It’s a place surrounded by the sea and snowy mountains, and with fresh air and a rich wilderness. Yes, it’s not so crowded here, but Tromsø is nevertheless a melting pot where indigenous culture blends with Norwegian and European cultures. This place has undoubtedly had a significant impact on my artistic development. This album is my second release with saxophone and orchestra, and also the second release where I premiere three new saxophone concertos that I have commissioned. The title Arctic Saxophone is not only a reference to Tromsø but also to the three composers on this recording that all have some link to the Arctic. The two Norwegian composers Alexander Aarøen and Terje Bjørklund both originate from Northern Norway, and the Russian composer Alexander Manotskov caught his inspiration from the Russian city of Arkhangelsk." - Ola Asdahl Rokkones