Short review:
A wonderful release from the highly acclaimed and exceptionally talented Principal Euphonium of the Black Dyke Band. Seven substantial but eclectic works are given the virtuoso treatment in a manner that ensures that the music is never lost behind the mind boggingly brilliant technical displays.
The “Three Worlds” Concerto is a thrilling modern work, whilst there is a superb recital with exquisite piano accompaniment in the form of the Gallic “Sonatine”. Add to that a breathtaking “Bravura” from the pen of Peter Graham (the soloists makes the three other original eup players redundant) and some wickedly flamboyant playing from the pens of Hohne, Wilby and Sarasate and you have a great showcase. It is the soloist’s performance of the Rossini “Theme and Variations” though that will leave you drooling.
Tracks:
1. Bravura, Fantasy on British Folk Melodies, Peter Graham, 5.21
2. Flight, Philip Wilby, 9.47
3. Theme and Variations, Gioacchino Rossini, arr. Brennan, 8.49
4-6. Sonatine, Piano accompaniment: Fennella Haworth-Smith, Jacques
Casterede, 7.24
4. I. Defile, 2.04
5. II. Serenade, 3.06
6. III. Final, 2.14
7. Slavische Fantasie, Carl Hohne, arr. Graham, 6.25
8. Zigeunerweisen, Gypsy Airs, Pablo de Sarasate, arr. Ruedi, 6.23
9-11. Three Stories - Three Worlds, Premiere Recording, Concerto for
Euphonium and Brass Band, Peter Meechan, 15.17
9. I. Hubris: The House of Atreus, 5.18
10. II. Discardation: Lament for Aerope, 5.52
11. III. New Order: Flight to Sparta, 4.07
Total CD running time: 64.02