Instrument: Tentet
Grade: conservatoire
Catalogue No: EC028
ISMN No: 9790570661688
The stark bleakness of Debussy's sixth 'Prélude',' des pas sur la neige', or 'Footsteps in the snow', is uncompomising. There appears to be no known origin for the title, but the composer's directions assert that the insistent opening rhythm 'must have the echoing evocation of a sad and frozen landscape', with the fragmented melody 'painful and expressive'.
This arrangement was specially made for the album 'Preludes, Rags and Cakewalks' (MPR 005), performed by The Symphonic Brass of London conducted by Eric Crees. All of the transcriptions are new and original, making this a world premiere recording.
‘Super playing from living legends of the London orchestral brass scene. In these fantastic arrangements it’s sometimes hard to believe these pieces weren’t originally scored for brass. The musicianship throughout is second to none and the sound is an absolute treat.
Eric Crees pays his affectionate respects in performances subtly styled, coloured and paced - from the touchingly restrained to the joyfully raucous. Musical authenticity permeates through, understated yet valued in placement and precision. It is a fabulous exploration that deserves the richest of accolades on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.’
Iwan Fox - 4 Bars Rest - Verdict *****
