Les 4 Pop’

The theatrical dimension of a chamber music work truly comes to life during a live performance—today, it has become essential in engaging an audience that is often wary of so-called «serious» music. Commissioned by the Ellipsos Quartet in 2020, Les 4 Pop’ embodies the four identities of a saxophone quartet, where each musician can adopt a distinct stage persona and gestural attitude. Whether as a Pop-Star (a self-centered soloist), Pop-Jazzy (a laid-back jazzman), Pop-Rock (channeling a guitar hero), or Pop-Corn (lyrical and playful), it’s time to have fun with the character of their instrument. This quartet is a musical farce that even an uninitiated audience will enjoy—a saxophone in all its forms! An introduction adds a touch of humor with four quotes from the saxophonist’s repertoire.
The piece is best performed standing.
Les 4 Pop’ won the Audience Prize at the 2022 Vedrarias National Composition Competition.