Nigel Wood and Hong Kong saxophonist Kevin Ling have been involved in numerous musical collaborations in the UK and Hong Kong.  In 2011, Kevin commissioned Nigel to write a new work for the less common combination of sopranino saxophone and piano, and “Man-Mou” was the result of that commission.

The title “Man-Mou” was inspired by the two types of Cantonese Opera plays. “Mou” plays emphasise war, conflict and strife. In contrast, “Man” plays tend to be gentler, more elegant and poetic. “Man-Mou'” is not intended to be programmatic or imitative of Cantonese Opera, rather an evocation of the myriad of musical styles and instruments (both Western and Eastern) that have influenced Cantonese music.

The ornaments are only suggestions, allowing the performer to embellish in a quasi improvisatory style. After a brief introduction, the main theme (Man), a coquettish, lyrical melody follows. This evolves into a more tense, jazz/funk section (Mou). A restorative calm leads to a peaceful ending.

“Man-Mou”was premièred at the 2012 World Saxophone Congress.

This version of “Man-Mou” has been arranged by the composer for saxophone ensemble with parts for either Bb or Eb saxophone taking the solo part.

The E-Edition PDF bundle comes with the following parts:

Standard parts
Bb Solo Saxophone (alternative to Eb Solo Saxophone)
Alto Saxophone 1 (alternative to Soprano Saxophone)
Alto Saxophone 2
Alto Saxophone 3
Tenor Saxophone 1
Tenor Saxophone 2
Baritone Saxophone (alternative to Bass Saxophone)

Alternative parts
Eb Solo Saxophone (alternative to Bb Solo Saxophone)
Soprano Saxophone (alternative to Alto Saxophone 1)
Bass Saxophone (alternative to Baritone Saxophone)

“Man-Mou” is also available in hard-copy from June Emerson Wind Music.