Fireworks
28-Feb-2004
Swiss Brass Consort
Obrasso CD 893
Total CD Playing Time: 52.13
The Philip Jones Brass Ensemble took brass playing down a different avenue when it was formed. Well respected brass players performing as a smaller group than the traditional brass band, but playing music to as good (if not better) standard. In addition, the arrival of the group broadened musical horizons a touch further, and since those early lofty days of the PJBE, numerous brass ensembles have been formed, each of them performing repertoire that depicts their instruments, and their own versatility.
One such group is the Swiss Brass Consort, and on this latest release entitled ‘Fireworks', the group invites you to travel back to the Baroque era (1600-1750) and enjoy some of the classics of that time in a modern day guise. Hence, music from the pens of Bach, Handel and Vivaldi is on offer along with some Jean-Baptiste Lully for good measure. It does not matter too much whether you are familiar with music from this era or not, the music featured on the disc will appeal to a variety of tastes, and most music lovers will be aware of the Bach, Handel and Vivaldi offerings for sure.
The ten piece Swiss Brass Consort's performances of all the music though are perhaps an acquired taste. You certainly will enjoy the disc is if you like high quality playing on a smaller basis than a brass band or orchestra. If you have never listened to such a group, this is the perfect opportunity.
The two JS Bach offerings are the perfect opportunity to sit back and relax. Bach's "Air from the Suite in D" is certainly one of his most famous pieces. This performance just oozes class and the playing appears effortless at times. The group clearly enjoy what they are doing, and whilst the Air in D is only just over four minutes, you want the playing to go and on.
The "Concert in A" might not be as familiar, but nevertheless, just as enjoyable. The opening allegro is bright, breezy, with some good individual playing within the group. One thing you notice in playing of this standard, is the confidence each person has in his or her colleague's ability. The middle andante is so laid back, you almost expect the performers to fall off their chairs. The production team throughout the entire disc superbly captures the balance between the musicians, and no finer example than in the andante and the final allegro, allowing the musicians to shine where the emphasis is on their individual instrument, whilst at the same time making sure the accompaniment is heard, whilst not detracting from any solo work.
Vivaldi's "Concerto Op 8/1" might only be around eight minutes is but is thoroughly enjoyable listening. The largo movement just purr's with quality with some beautiful solo playing. The final allegro movement certainly entices you to go back to the beginning. The playing is not loud and brash, just light and fluffy.
Handel's "Music for the Royal Fireworks" came about when King George II commissioned Handel to compose a work to accompany the fireworks display celebrating the signing of the treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle. Handel originally composed for an orchestra of strings, winds and percussion, but the King was insistent on a very large ensemble of only "war-like" instruments—i.e., instruments without strings. Over the years of course, this music has continually been used for celebratory occasions. For this reviewer, this is the outstanding individual track on the disc. The opening overture just sets the tone and hits you right between the eyes. At times, you have to remember that it is only ten musicians, such is the sound and quality of the playing, it is like listening to a larger brass ensemble. If you want a reason to purchase the CD, do it for the "Fireworks" by Handel.
Jean-Baptiste Lully's "Le Bourgeois Gentihomme" translates as ‘The Middle-Class Gentlemen', and is a comedy ballet. The music from 1670 is the main offering on the disc and you sense from the music that the composer had a sense of humour when composing this, seventeen years before his death. As it is the opening contribution on this recording, the overture sets the standard for the entire disc. The standard of playing is confident, strong, and effortless, as appears at various times during the recording.
This disc is worth the investment if you want to enjoy music from the Baroque era played by the high quality Swiss Brass Consort.
Malcolm Wood
Copyright 4BR
What's on this CD?
Suite ‘Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme’, Jean-Baptiste Lully
1) Ouverture 2.56
2) Gavotte 1.26
3) Canaries 1.05
4) Marche pour la Ceremonie turque 1.58
5) Air des Espagnois 2.00
6) Air (Loure) 1.22
7) Menuet 2.20
8) Bourree—Gaillarde 1.25
9) Charconne des Scaramouches Trivelins et Arlequins 2.43
Feuerwerkmusik. Georg F Handel
10) Ouverture 6.53
11) Bourree 1.18
12) La Paix (Largo alla siciliana) 3.06
13) Menuett I 1.02
14) Menuett II 0.59
15) La Rejouissance (Allegro) 1.50
Concerto op.8/1 RV 269 ‘la primavera’, Antonio Vivaldi
16) Allegro 3.08
17) Largo 1.55
Allegro 3.41
19) Air aus der Suite Nr 3, D-Dur, BW 1068 Johann Sebastian Bach 4.47
Konzert in a-moll BWV 1041, Johann Sebastian Bach
20) Allegro 3.06
21) Andante 4.03
22) Allegro assai 3.10
Total CD Playing Time: 52.13
