CD: Paul Terracini Music for Brass

Paul Terracini
Music for Brass
Sydney Brass
Conductor: Paul Terracini
Soloists: Paul Goodchild, Scott Kinmont
www.tallpoppies.net 

I feel I should begin by wholly recommending that one gives oneself a few moments of quiet, reflective time before pressing the play button to Sydney Brass's new recording; for what you are about to receive not only will you be eternally thankful, but immersed in a world of musical sublimity, dexterity and sheer brilliance.

From the outset, the utter class is so blatantly obvious, with brass playing as good as anyone could wish to hear. No. Far, far more than that. There is a true panache throughout, which serves Paul Terracini's exquisite and deeply enchanting work so well.

For instance, the horn playing in Gegansätze is angelic and the whirlwind of brass polyphony is simply breath-taking. The ensemble playing is polished to an absolute tee, with so very much to admire and relish throughout.

Terracini's writing and, indeed, scoring is so beautifully thought out, but of course it takes a stellar group of musicians to give justice to such beauty. The sounds created by the crop of Australia's finest shines so delightfully. Such warmth and such colour are continually emanated.

One track that will be sure to take you a step closer to eternal bliss is Exaude Orationem Nostram, written for eight trumpets. This is such a wonderfully reflective work, which is performed with the respect and dignity it so richly deserves. Melodious trumpet allurement that leaves the listener speechless and tears not very far away.

I can only finish off by saying that this CD of Sydney Brass, once bought and listened to many times. will sit happily amongst one's collection of other phenomenal brass albums. But I would be wrong. I believe this to be of the highest quality brass recording, in every aspect, that I've ever had the pleasure of listening to. Therefore, it shall be cherished and placed in pride of place... always.

SIMON COWEN – PRINCIPAL TROMBONIST, ROYAL LIVERPOOL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA


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