Aux Arc Saxophone Quartet

The rich, sonorous sounds of the classical saxophone can be heard through the artistic, solo and chamber performances of saxophonist Stan Morris. While a college student, he had the opportunity to hear and play for the late classical saxophonist Sigurd Rascher. The kaleidoscopic tonal colors and soaring beauty of Rascher’s playing strongly influenced the personal development of Morris’ concept of the saxophone and its value as a concert instrument. Recognized for his ability to recreate the inherent qualities of the saxophone intended by its inventor, Adolphe Sax, Morris has been praised for his imaginative programming by juxtaposing contemporary works for the saxophone with transcriptions from the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic eras in his recitals.

During two consecutive summer workshops at Union College in Schenectady, New York, Morris studied saxophone with Sigurd Rascher, premiering several new quartet works for the saxophone with the Rascher Saxophone Quartet. After completing four years as a naval musician, including a two-year tour with the Naval Sixth Fleet in Europe, he studied with Kenneth Deans and Lawrence Gwozdz while completing a Master of Fine Arts degree in Saxophone Performance at the University of Georgia. Since the fall of 1991, Morris has been the resident saxophonist at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville campus.

Active as a soloist and clinician, Morris has made numerous appearances as a recitalist and soloist with band and orchestra. He also gives school presentations, clinics, and master classes. The following comments have been given following recent performances.

“You played beautifully…your tone is beautiful, as is your sense of the music”.

“The participants (Alexander Workshop)…thought your playing was outstanding”.

We enjoyed “the informal presentation and the way you talked about the music”.

His name is included on the Arkansas Arts on Tour program of the Arkansas Arts Council and the Mid-America Arts Alliance Regional Touring Program.