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Featured Release Tyler Rix [Artist]

Title: Ascent

About: Sixteen-year old saxophonist Tyler Rix was discovered by record executives when he took part in BBC2's Classical Star TV talent programme. Astounded by his natural connection with his audience and raw enthusiasm for classical music, bosses at Universal Classics and Jazz offered him the chance to join the prestigious label.

Little did they know that Tyler had a tough decision of his own to make - whether to pursue football or music. The then 15-year old played for West Ham's Academy for 7 years where he experienced a string of successes. Snapped up on the day of his trial he was one of West Ham's fastest-ever signings, played several times at Upton Park and was prominently featured in Junior Soccer, a coaching guide produced in association with West Ham United.

Tyler, who began playing the saxophone at the age of 9 almost didn't make the Classical Star programme. Having placed a late entry he was told that there were no places left, until an extra London audition was added. But he didn't get through and was amazed not only when he got a call-back for a reserve place but, even more so, when he went through to the final stage of the competition, in the academy itself. Tyler also has a scholarship at Junior Guildhall and won a BBC Fame Academy Award in 2007.

Tyler's first public performance at The Vortex club during the London Jazz Festival created a unique situation because of his age. Not only were his friends unable to attend but his management company had to apply for a Chaperone Licence to accompany him.

Tyler's debut album, 'Ascent', released on 2nd February, has a unique sound world with saxophone melodies soaring over choral and string accompaniment. It creates a sense of calm that will surely be appreciated in the post-Christmas, recession-threatened months.

Artist(s): Tyler Rix

Label: (P) 2008 Universal Classics & Jazz

Catalogue Number: 4766732

£7.90