5.0 out of 5 stars
No Woodwinds Need Apply!, June 27, 2002
This review is from: Listen to the Band: On Parade (Audio CD)
This CD contains a compilation of marches from a BBC radio series, in which all but two numbers are performed by various brass bands. These bands mostly are sponsored by corporations, something that is reminiscent of a bygone era here in America (such as the Cities Service Band of America). And the musicianship is totally brilliant throughout.
Some comments on individual marches:
Simoraine - A true "showpiece" for cornet/trumpet.
The Melody Shop - About time this extremely melodic Karl King march received its due by being recorded on several albums.
Deeds of Valour - The composer, Bramwell Coles, was known as the "March King" of the Salvation Army, and was in charge of their International Music Department for many years.
Washington DC - A "modern" march, written by Bryan Kelly, not to be confused with A.E. Kelly, who composed the military-style marches "Arnhem" and "Arromanches".
Pomp and Circumstance March No. 5 - One of the lesser known of Elgar's "coronation" marches, but well worth a listen!
The Elephant - Certainly one of the oddest titles ever given to a military march.
Milestone March - A prime example of how far the march form can deviate from those that could actually be used to "march" to (but perfect for the concert stage).
March of the Toreadors and March from A Moorside Suite - These are the two "exceptions" on this album, both played by military bands with full instrumentation, and also the only "classical" marches.
Praise - Perhaps the most famous Salvation Army march, and also one of the greatest "modern" marches in general.
March Lorraine and Amparita Roca - Two of the best known French and Spanish marches, and rightfully so.
Washington Greys - The frequency with which this march has been recorded through the years more than makes up for the fact that Claudio Grafulla was a "one hit wonder" among march writers. This is also one of the oldest marches, dating from the 1870's.
Cavalcade of Martial Songs - This just has to be the best compilation of "catchy" tunes ever put together.
All in all, this will make an excellent addition to any march music collection.
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