For just shy of four decades the Delta Saxophone Quartet’s raison d’être has been to encourage composers to create new music and perform these fresh works in an engaging and inclusive way attracting listeners of all ages and social backgrounds.
The quartet has thrived on being involved in an area of new music making which is dynamic, exciting and informative and not just the preserve of a contemporary classical ‘nerds only’ club.
Tonight’s concert is inspired by the incredible work and ethos of the British composer Steve Martland. Steve, via his Strike Out summer course was a support for so many young composers starting out on their own personal journeys of discovery. The general public loved his direct and clear opinions as he was never shy of calling out the hypocrisy of the establishment, often as a TV commentator at the BBC Proms.
Steve inspired loyalty from the musicians in his band through to his local Turkish barber in Highbury, do check out his haircut! He, like his music was direct yet playful . Steve brought together people from all walks of life. He sought to unite and not to divide. Steve was polar opposite to the current populist politics of today.
This concert is an opportunity to remind ourselves of the gift which is Steve Martland. Short haircuts, white T shirts, endless black coffee and honest razor sharp music.