For those unaware, New York saxophonist and composer Quinsin Nachoff has carved out a unique career exploring the uncharted territory between the twin worlds of jazz and classical music, in a city that is equally renowned for both.

Through an array of fascinatingly diverse projects and collaborations, always pushing at the boundaries of genre, he has intrepidly explored the possibilities of combining the textural and compositional possibilities of the symphonic tradition with the passion and freedom of jazz.

Stars and Constellations features Quinsin Nachoff on tenor sax with bassist Mark Helias and drummer Dan Weiss, alongside the Bergamot Quartet and The Rhythm Method string quartets.

This album showcases a seamless integration of jazz and classical players, blurring the boundaries between genres. Inspired by mythology and the cosmos, Nachoff’s compositions explore the interconnectedness of opposites, bridging the gaps between extremes.

The album reflects his lifelong interest in science, drawing on collaborations with physicist Dr. Stephen Morris, and takes the listener on a compellingly unconventional musical journey. “Stars and Constellations” demonstrates Nachoff’s ongoing pursuit of innovative musical exploration, cementing his position as a fearless and forward-thinking artist.

1. Stars and Constellations: Scorpio (18:40)
2. Pendulum (14:02)
3. Stars and Constellations: Sagittarius (19:52)

With his music moving fluidly between the jazz and classical worlds, Nachoff opens this new recording on the near eighteen minute opus Stars and Constellations: Scorpio, a magical, at times aching yearn, at others a swirling, veritably cinematic journey, and one which culminates in a dueling, of sorts, that is as skittish, and as diligently hued as you would hope.

The fourteen minute Pendulum is up next and opens on a jaunty, ethereally layered stance, at times finding its way out of that musical avenue but for the most past it rides a fervent melodious train right through its fluctuating heart.

His brand of sparking inspirations bringing forth exhilarating compositions continues onward with the near twenty minute Stars and Constellations: Sagittarius, this final work of musical art opening with a searingly direct, skywards arc of spacial bending, before striding into a full on jazz genre-bender, closing on a stoically layered stillness.

Musicians:
Quinsin Nachoff – Tenor Saxophone
Mark Helias – Acoustic Bass
Dan Weiss – Drums

Bergamot Quartet:
Ledah Finck – Violin I
Sarah Thomas – Violin II
Amy Huimei Tan – Viola
Irène Han – Cello

The Rhythm Method, additional contributors on Pendulum:
Josh Henderson – Violin I
Erica Dicker – Violin II
Leah Asher – Viola
Meaghan Burke – Cello

Matt Holman – Conductor

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