Stratosphere

What do the American Joseph Kittinger and the Austrian Felix Baumgartner have in common? They both jumped from over 30km high with a parachute. While Kittinger’s attempt on 16 August 1960 was from a height of ‘only’ 31,333 meters, Felix Baumgartner broke this record on 14 October 2012 with a breath-taking 38,969 meters. This composition Stratosphere describes the adventure, from climbing into the capsule with help of a balloon, to the short pause in the stratosphere, and the jump, the turbulence during the free-fall descent, and finally the opening of the parachute and the safe landing.

A Tribute to Mahler : Resurges - Based on a hymn tune from 2nd Symphony by Gustav Mahler

The poem "The Resurrection" by Friedrich Gottlieb Klopstock was set to music by Gustav Mahler in the fifth movement of his Second Symphony, known as the "Resurrection." The central passage from Mahler's musical adaptation was incorporated into "A Tribute to Mahler," a composition created in homage to Mahler, 100 years after his death. Powerful brass tones and delicate woodwind melodies alternate in a Mahleresque manner with horn and trumpet signals from a distance. The choir is delicately complemented by the solo alto saxophone. "A Tribute to Mahler" aims to, like a continuation "after a short repose," offer us a glimpse into the blissful world to which we will all eventually journey.

A Christmas Medley

A Christmas Medley

Jet Stream : A short musical story about a rapid weather phenomenon

Jet Stream : A short musical story about a rapid weather phenomenon

Heartbeat of a City

Heartbeat of a City

Heartbeat of a City

Heartbeat of a City

Rising into a new era

Rising into a new era

The Adventures of a Tin Soldier

The Adventures of a Tin Soldier

Impresario

Impresario is a solemn concert march by Otto M. Schwarz, equally suitable as a work to open a concert or indeed as a finale. The main theme of the first section is processed in different harmonic and rhythmic variations and finally leads to a trio with numerous technical refinements and a catchy melody. This somewhat out-of-the-ordinary concert march in Otto M. Schwarz’ well-known style ends with a frenzied finale.

A Tribute to Mahler : Resurges - Based on a hymn tune from 2nd Symphony by Gustav Mahler

Symphonic Suite from 1805 - A Town's tale

Symphonic Suite from 1805 - A Town's Tale

Symphonic Suite from 1805 - A Town's tale

Symphonic Suite from 1805 - A Town's Tale

Crossover Suite No. 1 : for Saxophone Quartet

Crossover Suite No. 1 comprises five stylistically very diverse movements. 1. INTRODUCTION: A brisk opening leads to a bass groove on baritone saxophone. Various animated stylistic elements such as finger snaps are contrasted with ‘straighter’ elements familiar from march music. 2. VIENNESE WALTZ: A waltz in a minor key, with the characteristic and unmistakable accompaniment in the Viennese style. 3. ROUNDABOUT: Roundabout is a rondo with recurring motifs and a point of rest in the adagio. 4. STOMPS AND CLAPS: As the name suggests, the work is performed with the help of hands and feet. Body percussion alternates with technically demanding passages. 5. FINALE: A rapid final movement with a dolce middle part leads to a furious closing section with changes of meter and some dynamic surprises. Each movement can also stand on its own, but when performed as a complete suite this composition shows off the full breadth and capability of a saxophone quartet.

Echoes of Time : Symphonic Opener

"Echoes of Time" is a concert overture by Otto M. Schwarz that captivates with its impressive musical diversity. The composition combines fanfare-like sounds with gentle, lyrical passages, creating a dynamic soundscape. These varied elements lead to a majestic finale. The energetic yet emotive music conveys a positive atmosphere.  

Hero

„Hero“, a piece commissioned by the Orchestre d'Harmonie de Digoin, expresses the concept of heroism in its most comprehensive sense. The composition opens with a majestic introduction, where the rhythmic motif played by the brass section gradually fades, giving way to a more lively Allegro. A new theme unfolds through the skillful use of different tempos, keys, and timbres, culminating at the end of the composition in a grandiose finale.

Hero

„Hero“, a piece commissioned by the Orchestre d'Harmonie de Digoin, expresses the concept of heroism in its most comprehensive sense. The composition opens with a majestic introduction, where the rhythmic motif played by the brass section gradually fades, giving way to a more lively Allegro. A new theme unfolds through the skillful use of different tempos, keys, and timbres, culminating at the end of the composition in a grandiose finale.  

Carol of the Bells

Gerald Oswald presents an impressive new interpretation of the famous Christmas carol "Carol of the Bells," which is based on a Ukrainian folk song, for symphonic wind orchestra. His arrangement combines classical tones with a jazz waltz, creating a captivating musical blend. This versatile arrangement stands out with its unique fusion of tradition and jazz. Experience a festive and unforgettable sonic experience.