sound:

In 1995 Andy was approached by Manchester live music venue 'Band on the Wall' to create an ensemble to perform new music that would be commissioned from him. It was agreed that a nine-sax ensemble (sopranino to bass sax!) plus rhythm section would be a vehicle for Andy's new compositions. Andy's choice of saxophonists for SaxAssault was intriguing, in that he asked leading UK players from the worlds of jazz, contemporary classical, funk and pop music to come together into an ensemble. Knowing who he was composing for, the music plays to the strengths of each individual player whilst creating an ensemble that can genuinely be classed as unique.

SaxAssault recorded its debut CD, entitled 'Bang!' in 1996 at Band on the Wall. In 1998 Andy was a co-recipient of the prestigious Peter Whittingham Award which resulted in further compositions being written for SaxAssault. February 2000 saw the group undertake a UK Tour, financially supported by Arts Council of England Jazz Touring. In 2001 BBC Radio 3 'Jazz Notes' broadcast a SaxAssault concert over two nights.

US Sax Legend Bob Mintzer guests with SaxAssault in 2002 and 2005, alongside regular UK annual concert appearances. In 2006 SaxAssault were the first British group to be invited to perform at the Jazz Night of the World Saxophone Congress in Slovenia. This gig with the Yellowjackets & RTV Slovenia Big Band was broadcast on European radio and TV.

SaxAssault's second CD, Sax of Gold, featuring special guests Bob Mintzer and Gwilym Simcock was recorded in Summer 2006 and released 1st March 2007. It is to be followed by UK Tour Spring 2007 and European Festival Tour Summer 2007.

In addition to SaxAssault performances, Andy has been invited by numerous Music Conservatoires and Universities to give masterclasses directing, rehearsing and performing his SaxAssault compositions, most recently at The Royal Northern College of Music, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Royal College of Music and Universität der Künste Berlin.

SaxAssault commissioned music has been funded by Arts Council of England North West, Inner City Music, Band on the Wall & Peter Whittingham Award and is published by Astute Music Ltd.

• website link for SaxAssault: www.saxassault.com/home.html
• other artists and composers involved in sound 2008