Customer Reviews

Brass Around the World

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This CD is largely a compilation of great orchestral melodies which have been very skillfully transcribed for brass ensemble. Full string orchestra favorites such as Polovetsian Dances (Strangers in Paradise), Marche Militaire Francaise, the Swan, and Alla Marcia from Karelia Suite have been artfully orchestrated for brass. Stately brass-intensive epics such as Elsa's procession and the procession of nobles are also included. It is a great, broad selection of (15) time honored pieces that many high school musicians have played, so there is positive nostalgia here too. You don't have to be a certified classic critic to enjoy it.

The individual instrumental parts can be distinguished (often the melody is played in a round, alternating between instruments) yet this is a traditional well-blended brass ensemble here and provides as a group, a controlled & balanced wall/volume of sound (as would be expected at the pro level). The mostly romantic selections are delicately orchestrated and played tenderly for an eight piece brass plus two percussionist ensemble. Brass consists of 3 trumpets (various types), three trombones (one acting as bass and/or baritone), one horn and one Tuba. The percussion is hardly noticable (and there are no gimmicks here like the addition of the electric guitars, synthesizers and the like which distract and cheapen the brass sound).

Although you'll spot a few very minor articulation and intonation (upper brass) misses, this is a fully pro artist ensemble (Birmingham Symph.), although it falls short of a Summit Brass or a Chicago Brass Ensemble. Quality is very good.

I would put this CD in the sleeper category because I suspect that many folks may go after the major orch. brass ensemble titles or other well knowns such as Empire, etc. AND the price is [great]. I (myself) selected it because something else was not available. Great value. A full pro, pure brass group here, with a great selection of pieces.