Sideward Glance, A

A gorgeous, introspective ballad adapted from the combo version recorded on Mike's latest CD, this solo feature for alto or soprano sax presents all member of medium-advanced bands with sufficient challenges. Two fortissimo climaxes punctuate the otherwise delicate nature of this piece, and short cadenzas for three soloists (piano, soprano sax, drums) in the opening bars give it a unique start. In his score notes, Mike emphasizes the importance of playing with rhythmic precision in a chart that combines a slow tempo with 16th-note figures.