Compositional Techniques in the Saxophone Works of Yusef Lateef

Abstract

Yusef Lateef (1920-2013) is one of the most influential figures in the history of the saxophone. After garnering acclaim from his hundreds of improvisatory recordings on a wide array of instruments, Lateef also inspired generations of students through his decades of teaching at the University of Massachusetts. It was here that, during the decade of the 1990s, he completed eight works for concert saxophone. The purpose of this study is to examine six specific compositional tools found in Lateef’s concert saxophone works. Further, this study explores Lateef’s musical career and broad compositional influences and provides analysis on the themes of each selected piece. This dissertation also utilizes a standardized grading system for each work to provide a valuable tool for selecting literature for both pedagogues and performers. Lateef’s compositions for concert saxophone are quality works within the saxophone repertoire and deserve additional consideration and performance.