Tourmaline was written for saxophonists Xelo Giner and Carola Cuypers. Created in the studios of the IUA/Phonos Foundation in Barcelona, it is the sixth piece in a series of compositions for solo instrument with electronics. The crystal tourmaline often shows two or more colors, such as watermelon tourmaline, which has a red center surrounded by bright green. A small change in the complex makeup of the developing crystal will result in a completely different color scheme. According to legend, wearing the stone can lend permanence and stability to friendships and love relationships. In this composition the saxophone and electronics are closely linked in a fast-paced, animated conversation. The electronic part takes on a definite personality unto itself as it weaves about, interrupting and commenting on the saxophone part. Twisting and turning through a series of moods and situations, the many possibilities for interaction between the two instruments are revealed.
Tourmaline is available on Innova Recordings 662 (Alexandra Gardner, Luminoso)
Xelo Giner, saxophone
soprano saxophone
pre-recorded CD
Duration: 10 minutes
Premiere: February 16, 2004
Carola Cuypers at the 4th International Festival of Saxophone Music, Riga, Latvia
Received 2007 Mention, Prix Ton Bruynel
The New York Times | Steve Smith
"Alexandra Gardner's Tourmaline surrounded the saxophonist Brian Sacawa's graceful lines and flutters with
bustling electronic counterpoint and ghostly echoes."
Revista Musica Catalana
"La compositora Alexandra Gardner, demostrando un auténtico y profundo
conocimiento de los medios electrónicos, con Tourmaline
plantea un verdadero contraste entre los dos medios sonoros que
enmarca magníficamente dentro de una forma bien trabada,
en que tiempo y sonido se amalgaman en un ágil discurso
y unidad."