OpenSky

An Invitation to 'Open Sky': Join Me on This Personal Musical Journey

Picture an album where the refined structures of contemporary classical music intertwine seamlessly with the infectious grooves of jazz, the lively pulse of salsa, and the spontaneous spirit of improvisation – all captured in the high-quality sound of Chandos Records, a leading classical label known for its excellent recordings and artist partnerships. This is Open Sky, my most ambitious endeavor yet: my debut recording scored for chamber orchestra, featuring world premiere recordings of compositions that have been commissioned, premiered, and cherished over the past 14 years. These pieces have forged deep connections with performers and listeners alike, attracting commitments from soloists of the highest calibre who are not only masterful artists but also lifelong friends and, in some cases, family.

As I celebrate my 60th birthday, Open Sky marks a profound personal milestone in my evolution as a composer. Drawing from my saxophone background and diverse experiences, it represents an intimate step into orchestral realms, blending styles I've lived through performing worldwide. In today's streaming-dominated world, even renowned labels like Chandos can't cover the full expense of orchestral productions alone – composers often fund the musicians while the label handles recording, editing, design, release, and promotion. That's why I've chosen a personal approach, reaching out to a select circle of friends and supporters like you for sponsorship, rather than a broad public campaign. I'm personally investing by selling two of my cherished saxophones (aiming to raise £13,000+), but your involvement could help bridge the gap and create something truly lasting. Recordings like this amplify a composer's voice, sparking future performances and commissions – and with your support, we can ensure this music soars.
No pressure to commit right away; please explore the details here, and if it resonates, let's start a conversation about ideas, contributions, or even connections to others who might share the enthusiasm.

The Music: World Premieres Brought to Life on Record

Every composition on Open Sky emerged from genuine collaborations, tailored for these soloists to foster organic expression and emotional resonance. Following successful premieres on international stages, these works are now ready to reach a wider audience through this landmark recording – blending innovation and heartfelt storytelling that draws you in from the first note.

Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler! – This exhilarating 20-minute concerto for soprano saxophone and chamber orchestra was commissioned by the World Saxophone Congress and premiered by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra with Branford Marsalis, conducted by Clark Rundell, in 2012. A fully notated version was later premiered by Claude Delangle at EurSax in Porto in 2017. Building on a decade of partnership with Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Timothy McAllister – highlighted by our album Westland on Naxos – this work captures joy and energy, urging listeners to embrace the good times through its vibrant orchestral scoring.
Whisper Goodbye, Aquarelle, and Keep on Smiling – Scored thoughtfully for combinations of solo piano, harp, cello, and string orchestra, these pieces were created specifically for Gwilym Simcock, Lauren Scott, and Rachel Helleur-Simcock. They pay homage to classical traditions while offering soloists expansive freedom, resulting in intimate, reflective soundscapes that linger with beauty and introspection.
Concerto for Guitar – A compelling 20-minute, four-movement work commissioned by the Northern Chamber Orchestra for Craig Ogden. It received its world premiere at Manchester's Stoller Hall, followed by acclaimed tours across the UK and Australia, with Craig's guitar weaving through orchestral swells of drama and lyricism.
Open Sky – The inspiring 12-minute title track, a single-movement piece for solo soprano and tenor saxophones with chamber orchestra, premiered with Rob Buckland and myself at the closing Gala Concert of the European Saxophone Congress in Trento, Italy, in July 2024. With Emma McPhilemy and Rob as recording soloists, it conveys expansive freedom and emotional depth in a single, continuous arc.

“The music was written for these soloists, all brilliant musicians and dear friends, which has enabled a true musical collaboration to develop organically. Clark is the perfect person to direct proceedings, a friend for 40 years, and a high-profile conductor known worldwide with a clear understanding of the feels, grooves, and musical heartbeat of my music.” – Andy Scott

The Ensemble: Virtuosos and Lifelong Bonds

What makes this project so special is the people involved – a stellar lineup of artists who inspire me:

Timothy McAllister (soprano saxophone): Grammy-winning collaborator with a shared history on Westland.
Craig Ogden (guitar): Internationally respected soloist who premiered the concerto and has toured it across the UK and Australia.
Gwilym Simcock (piano): Boundary-pushing improviser blending jazz and classical worlds.
Rachel Helleur-Simcock (cello): Principal cellist with the Hallé Orchestra, bringing an unrivalled warmth of tone to these evocative pieces.
Lauren Scott (harp): Elegant harpist elevating the album's delicate textures.
Emma McPhilemy and Rob Buckland (saxophones): A leading young saxophonist currently touring worldwide with Riverdance (Emma) and long-term collaborator Rob Buckland, together infusing the title track with dynamism and expertise.
Clark Rundell (conductor): A world-renowned orchestral conductor celebrated for his collaborations bridging jazz and classical worlds, and my friend of 40 years who perfectly captures the music's grooves and authenticity.
Supported by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, this project combines personal passion with professional excellence.

Covering the Essentials: £25,000 for the Orchestral Sessions

The total for musicians and orchestra comes to £25,000 (Chandos invests in production and promotion). Why pursue it? As a freelance composer, recordings are essential – they preserve art, expand reach, and fuel growth. Sponsorship from friends like you can help close the gap, transforming personal commitment into shared success.

Ways to be Involved: Flexible Sponsorship Starting Points

This isn't about fixed demands; it's an open dialogue. Please use the following tiers as inspiration, and let's customise based on what excites you – from financial support to creative ideas. Every level includes my sincere thanks, and pledges help us hit the January 2026 recording goal. Additional options like sponsoring a specific soloist or Clark, or interest-free loans, are welcome too.

£150+ : Become a Credited Supporter – Your name in the album sleeve notes, plus two signed CDs and a curated selection of signed sheet music – a lasting memento of your role.
£250+ : Gain Insider Insights – All above, plus an exclusive invitation to a one-hour online event via Zoom, which will give and insight into Open Sky, with special guest spots from soloists sharing behind-the-scenes stories.
£500+ : Enjoy VIP Privileges – Everything prior, plus a VIP pass for you and a guest to the album launch event – complete with meet-and-greets with the soloists, complimentary drinks, and celebratory atmosphere.
£1,000+ : Craft a Bespoke Experience – Includes all rewards, plus tailored perks we design together: sponsor a musician, or arrange a private house concert by Gwilym and myself (saxophone and piano in a jazz-infused set – invite your friends for a unique evening).

If smaller ideas or just brainstorming appeal, that's perfect – or pass this along to someone who might love it.
Contributions of any size make waves.

Let's Start the Conversation