Program Offerings
“A World-Class performer, Michael can make the soprano saxophone sing like an angel. Words cannot describe the magic that happens when this superb Artist performs!”
— The Artist Series (Tallahassee, FL)
“Michael played with both passion and wonderful technique, sweeping the audience into the warmth of his tone.”
— Peace Memorial Concert Series (Clearwater, FL)
“A virtuosic musician, his performances have been wonderful!”
- Downtown Chamber Series (Phoenix, AZ)
A Classical Saxophone Recital
Johann Sebastian Bach Sonata in Eb Major
Robert Schumann Three Romances
Francis Poulenc Sonata for Oboe
Ola Gjeilo River*
Heitor Villa-Lobos Fantasia for Soprano Sax
Ellen Taaffe Zwilich Episodes*
*denotes work dedicated to Michael
Pieces for Michael
Georg Philipp Telemann Sonata in C minor
Ola Gjeilo River
Karalyn Schubring The Journey
Olivia Kieffer Three Pieces for Michael
Juan Sebastian Cardona Ospina And the pleasure blooms to die…
Ellen Taaffe Zwilich Episodes
Pieces for Michael represents a profound tribute to the artistry of Michael Hernandez, showcasing an extraordinary array of works for soprano saxophone and piano that highlight the instrument's remarkable versatility and beauty. This project encapsulates years of dedicated collaboration, reflecting the passionate and unwavering enthusiasm that renowned composers have for Michael’s distinctive musical voice.
Notably, this concert will feature the talents of celebrated composers, including Ellen Taaffe Zwilich, Marc Mellits, Ola Gjeilo, Olivia Keiffer, Karalyn Schubring, and Juan Sebastian Cardona Ospina. Experience this landmark project that honors Michael’s contributions to the music world, celebrating the innovative spirit of contemporary composition
Border Landscapes A soprano saxophone & piano recital featuring the works of Latinx composers
Arturo Marquez Danzón No. 6
Juan Sebastian Cardona Ospina And the pleasure blooms to die…*
Heitor Villa-Lobos Fantasia for Soprano Sax
Victor Ibarra Border Landscapes*
Astor Piazzolla Histoire du Tango
Manuel Ponce Estrellita
*denotes work dedicated to Michael
For Carina An historical program that explores the repertoire of Carina Raschèr
Antonio Vivaldi Sonata No.2 in A Major Op.2
Everett Gates Incantation and Ritual
Pasquale Tallarico The Timid Maiden
John David Lamb Sonata
Sigfried Borris Konzert
Erland von Koch Monolog 4
Fritz Christian Gerhard Rhapsodie
Harald Genzmer Sonate
Carina Raschèr, the daughter of legendary classical saxophone pioneer Sigurd Raschèr, was a true prodigy, launching her concert career at the tender age of five. Throughout her illustrious career, she forged collaborations with many of the most celebrated composers of the 20th century, premiering groundbreaking works by luminaries such as Paul Hindemith, Iannis Xenakis, Philip Glass, Luciano Berio, Miklos Maros, Charles Wuorinen, Sofia Gubaidulina, Chen Yi, Steven Stucky, and literally hundreds more.
Michael considers himself incredibly fortunate to have studied under Carina Rascher, viewing her as one of his most influential mentors. This recording project aims to shine a light on lesser-known works composed specifically for her during the early stages of her career, including several never-before-heard pieces and exciting world premieres. Featured composers in this project include Erland von Koch, Sigfried Borris, Harald Genzmer, Everett Gates, John David Lamb, Fritz Christian Gerhard, and Pasquale Tallarico.
Join us in celebrating the remarkable legacy of Carina Rascher, as we honor her contributions to the world of music through this unique concert, brimming with innovation and artistry.
