Vintage Gems – Brass Archives III

Various Bands and Conductors
Choice Recordings: CHCD3BM3
Total playing time 76.44

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"Vintage Gems" from Choice Recordings features five cornet players described aptly in the sleeve notes as living in the Golden Age of Brass. These cornet players are Herbert L. Clarke, Bohumir Kryl, Del Staigers, Harry Mortimer and Jack Mackintosh.

I must admit that as a brass band player born in the later half of the 20th century, I was filled with dread at having to listen to a CD of vintage recordings, despite the calibre of its featured stars. The fact that there is no performance which is dated later than 1933, I cannot be blamed for worrying about quality of the recordings. My fears were put to rest as the masters of digital restoration put together this rather superb collection of old recordings.

Everyone has a favourite cornet legend. Here in England, Jack Mackintosh and Harry Mortimer are always on the top of the list. The American cornet players Del Staigers and Herbert Clarke are not forgotten and are often referred to as the triple tonguing specialists. Admittedly, I had never heard of German born Bohumir Kryl before and unfortunately his only contribution of "Carnival of Venice" was probably not the finest of his performing days. But despite this and other blemishes in playing standard, this disc is a fantastic collection of cornet legends.

This CD is like a solo competition for the golden oldies. As the audience you will get a chance to judge these men playing solos, some of which are still played today. It is a great study in style and with three very different versions of the "Carnival of Venice" to compare, you are bombarded with a variety of flexibility and technique. It is a fascinating disc.

There are also cringe-worthy moments for the listener with some atrocious band accompaniment and sometimes a complete disregard for rhythm. This does not detract from the concept of the CD, but it does make it harder to listen to the whole CD in one sitting. There are also unusual moments of entertainment. Harry Mortimer, a yodeller, an organ and what sounds like a nose whistle jumps to mind.

His other Alpine contribution does include some great playing on his echo cornet. I believe this echo cornet is still used today by Fodens Principal cornet player Mark Wilkinson at concerts. A genuinely entertaining item contributed by Harry Mortimer is called "‘Tom and Kitty – Feline Pranks". Listen out for the singing and cat noises provided by the Fodens band.

As brass students we inevitably hear about the ‘greats' and how we could learn a thing or too if we had the chance to hear them. Well, here is your chance. As for my favourite, it must be Herbert.L Clarke with a great recording of "Showers of Gold", recorded in 1912.

This CD gives you value for money with 76 minutes and 25 tracks. Some will make you giggle and cringe, but overall this CD will do nothing but impress you. The quality of the recordings is great and the sleeve notes are informative.

Has the art of cornet playing changed? Yes, of course it has, but it begs the question of whether it lost something in the process. You can judge for yourself.

Marieka Gray
Copyright 4BR

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