Christian Lauba, Philippe Geiss

Blue Balafon (Book/CD)

Balafon, the first of Christian Lauba's Neuf Études for Saxophone, is an 'African song' that uses the ancient technique of circular breathing. This soloist work - splendidlyperformed in the album 'Hard' by Richard Ducros, one of the greatest interpreters of Lauba's works for saxophone - was expanded and transformed, with the composer's approval, by saxophonistPhilippe Geiss into a piece for Saxophone (tenor or soprano) and electronics under the title Blue Balafon. The arrangement calls for 'free articulation in a 'jazz legato' spirit', makingtheuse of circular breathing optional in order to favour the piece's incredible energy.

The score comes with a CD that includes a complete version of the work performed on Saxophone by Philippe Geiss, as well as anelectroacoustic accompaniment isolat­ed for playback. This eclectic musical adventure proves itself both stimulating for the mind and invigorating for the senses.