Saxophonist Willem Moolenbeek enjoys a varied musical career that spans most genres and styles. He has performed with pop groups, as an orchestral soloist, chamber musician and in recital. His music can frequently be heard on broadcasts by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. His teachers have included Canadian concert saxophonist Paul Brodie as well as Americans Frederick Hemke, Arthur Hegvik and James Houlik. His focus in recent years has been to exploit the vocal qualities of the tenor saxophone in particular. He has recorded three albums with concert pianist Boyd McDonald; Songs without Words, Heartsongs and Wings of Song. As well he recently released The Christmas Songs with keyboardist Carl Horton.
Various composers have written works for him including Andrew Ager, Barry Cabena, Leonard Enns, Timothy Corlis and Boyd McDonald. Two works by Leonard Enns are available on the 2007 recording “Hammer and Wind” (available at cdbaby).
He has been featured on the cover of the international Saxophone Journal for his pioneering work on the tenor saxophone.
Willem is an artist/clinician for Jupiter Instruments Canada.
Working with organizations such as the Edward Johnson Music Foundation and the Foundation for Education – Perth Huron, he has presented over 2000 programs for young people.
Willem Moolenbeek teaches saxophone as part of the applied music faculties of McMaster University, the University of Waterloo (Conrad Grebel University College), the University of Guelph and the National Music Camp of Canada.
"A standard for tonal excellence in the world of reed music; uncanny control and expression" - The Record
"An extraordinary musician who showed every facet of his family of instruments" –Hamilton Spectator
"He spins long, lyrical melodies on his saxophone and negotiates the most virtuosic passages. The real surprise is his beautiful tone, which can be both luminous and dramatic." – Stratford Concerts
"The most beautiful tenor saxophone sound I have ever heard" – Paul Brodie O.C. (1934-2007)
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