How Insensitive (Insensatez) – Bossa Nova for Saxophone Quartet (AATB)

Antônio Carlos Jobim's melancholic bossa nova masterpiece, arranged for saxophone quartet. Composed in 1961, How Insensitive (Insensatez) is one of the jewels of the bossa nova repertoire – a gentle, aching melody, often said to echo Chopin's Prelude in E minor, carried by Jobim's unmistakable harmonies. This arrangement keeps the light, swaying groove of the Brazilian original while giving every member of the quartet a moment in the spotlight: the theme travels from voice to voice, creating a constantly shifting, conversational texture. At its heart lies an open improvisation section for tenor or baritone saxophone, making it a perfect piece for ensembles who want to bring a touch of jazz freedom to their program.

Written by Frank Herrgott – pianist, composer and arranger – for Les Désaxés, a French saxophone quartet renowned for blending virtuosity and humor on stage. DETAILS - Instrumentation: 2 Alto, Tenor & Baritone Saxophones (AATB) -

Duration: approx. 3 minutes - Level: Intermediate / Advanced - Style: Bossa nova / Latin jazz - Features: Open improvisation section (tenor or baritone) - Includes: Full score + individual parts (PDF) Music by Antônio Carlos Jobim Arranged by Frank Herrgott