Pieces Caracteristiques No. 1: A l'Espagnole - Alto Sax and Piano

Pierre Max Dubois (1930-1995) was a teacher of musical analysis at the Paris Conservatory and a prolific composer, mostly of music for wind instruments.  He was trained at the conservatories of Tours and of Paris and won the Prix de Rome in 1953.  During his student years he won prizes in clarinet, harmony, and piano.

Characteristic Pieces in the Form of a Suite for Alto Saxophone and Piano was published in 1962 and remains popular in the advanced saxophonist's repertoire. Dubois' music is characteristically light-hearted with unusual harmonic and melodic textures. The first part of Characteristic Pieces in the Form of a Suite for Alto Saxophone and Piano, A l'Espagnole reflects Dubois' compositional characteristics as well as elements of Spanish traditional music and a typical performance lasts about three and a half minutes. Characteristic Pieces in the Form of a Suite is essential to the advanced saxophonist's repertoire. Dubois' most famous work makes for an exciting and enjoyable performance for players and audiences alike.”