Voices in Brass; Blog #6: Listening

 

Voices of Brass: A Curated Playlist of Must-Hear Brass Ensemble Music

Hello, brass enthusiasts! Today, we’re doing something a little different. Instead of focusing on a single piece or ensemble, I’ve put together a 40ish-minute playlist featuring some of the best, in my opinion, brass ensemble performances across different styles and eras. Whether you’re a die-hard brass fan or just dipping your toes into the world of brass ensembles, this list has something for everyone!

To open this playlist with grandeur and power, we begin with Richard Strauss’ Vienna Philharmonic Fanfare, performed at the 2017 CancerBlows Principals Concert (2:25). Originally composed in 1924 for the Vienna Philharmonic, this fanfare is a regal and commanding showcase of brass brilliance, with rich harmonies and bold, triumphant statements. This particular performance was part of CancerBlows, a charitable event founded by the late Ryan Anthony, former principal trumpet of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, to raise awareness and funds for multiple myeloma research. The Principals Concert brought together some of the most esteemed brass players from major orchestras around the world, making this rendition of Strauss’ fanfare not only an incredible musical experience but also a performance filled with purpose, unity, and resilience.

The second piece is switching gears to The Rains of Castamere from Game of Thrones is a haunting and evocative piece, originally composed by Ramin Djawadi (3:14). The arrangement performed by some of New York City's best low brass musicians brings an added layer of depth and gravity to the already somber melody. The deep, resonant tones of the low brass ensemble perfectly capture the piece’s dark, foreboding atmosphere, transforming it into a powerful brass rendition that accentuates the emotional weight of the song. The arrangement highlights the unique capabilities of the brass family, utilizing rich, dark timbres to evoke the tragic events associated with House Lannister. This performance showcases both the versatility and the expressive potential of low brass, blending cinematic drama with chamber music precision.

The third piece I am going share is, Celestial Suite by Jim Stephenson (3:54). It is a stunning composition for brass quintet that takes listeners on a musical journey through the cosmos. Originally commissioned by Axiom Brass, it is divided into several movements, each one capturing the grandeur and mystery of celestial phenomena. With its rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and bold brass textures, Celestial Suite explores the vastness and beauty of space, while showcasing the versatility of the brass ensemble. Stephenson's writing is both challenging and accessible, allowing the performers to bring their full expressive range to the forefront, creating a captivating, atmospheric experience for the audience. This piece blends contemporary brass writing with a sense of awe and wonder, making it a compelling addition to any groups repertoire or listening playlist. We are going to look at movement three entitled, Newton, specifically, but I recommend listening to the entirely of the work, here (18:00).

The fourth piece I want to share is Iron Horse by Kevin McKee (11:22). It is an energetic and vividly evocative brass quintet piece that captures the power and motion of the industrial age, particularly the impact of the locomotive. The piece’s driving rhythms, bold brass textures, and syncopated figures give a sense of relentless forward momentum, while still allowing the brass ensemble to showcase moments of contrast with lyrical, reflective passages. The performance by the US Army Brass Quintet brings out the full range of this exciting composition, highlighting the technical prowess and expressive capabilities of the ensemble. Iron Horse is an exhilarating work that combines precision, energy, and storytelling through the unique voice of brass, making it a compelling and dynamic addition to any brass playlist.

Now, I wouldn't be me if I didn't change things up a little bit with a bit of Jazz. We are going to look at Duke Ellington’s Caravan, as performed by the Boston Brass (5:13). The Boston Brass captures the energetic spirit of Ellington’s composition, highlighting the rhythmic drive and harmonies while showcasing the versatility of the brass quintet. This performance offers a fresh take on a classic, blending jazz elements with the unique sound of brass. This piece is featured on their, "Latin Nights" album.

Before we close out this post, I wanted to slow things down one more time. TenThing is a dynamic brass ensemble known for their captivating performances and innovative arrangements. This all-female group from Norway brought to life by colleague, Tine Thing Helseth, is celebrated for their technical skill, vibrant energy, and ability to push the boundaries of brass music. Their performances often blend classical precision with fresh, modern interpretations, and their arrangement of Somewhere Over the Rainbow is no exception(4:30). The piece is beautifully reimagined, with TenThing’s stunning sound design and seamless camera work amplifying the emotive quality of this timeless song.

To close things out for this, we are going to have our big finale, The Firebird Suite (11:46)! This piece is composed by Igor Stravinsky and this version is arranged by, Michael Allen. Performing is the Hercules Brass Ensemble which is known for their powerful, polished performances and their ability to bring the full range of expression to their brass music. With a reputation for precision and musicality, they excel in transforming large-scale orchestral works into stunning brass arrangements. Their performance of The Firebird Suite by Igor Stravinsky is no exception. Originally composed for orchestra, The Firebird Suite is a vivid and dramatic piece that tells the mythical story of the Firebird, a magical creature that helps a prince defeat an evil sorcerer. Stravinsky’s music blends fiery intensity with haunting beauty, using complex rhythms, bold brass fanfares, and lush, sweeping melodies to evoke a sense of both danger and triumph. The Hercules Brass brings this epic work to life with a raw energy that emphasizes the grandeur and passion of the original score.

Well friends, that’s a wrap! Whether you’ve been tapping your feet, nodding along, or just soaking in the sounds, I hope this playlist has shown you the versatility and excitement of brass ensembles. From the bold fanfares to the jazz vibes, and all the way to the epic finale, these pieces capture the heart and energy of brass music in so many different ways. I hope you found something new to love, or maybe rediscovered an old favorite. So, take a breath, rewind, and let these brass sounds keep you company. Enjoy the music, and as always, keep exploring!

Also, here is a P.S. recording for everyone: I wanted to include this piece, but I was intentionally trying to keep solo works out of the list. Here is one of my favorite pieces, especially with the way the world is right now: Song for Hope, composed by Peter Meechan and performed at CancerBlows 2015, by Ryan Anthony(one of my previous mentors), Michael Sachs, and David Bilger.