The nominations from the 4BR team for consideration are...
Barber
John Barber
Foden’s Band
Conductor: Michael Fowles
Doyen Recordings: DOY CD338
Total Playing Time: 61.54 mins
The versatility of one of the brass band movements finest trombonist is shown to superb effect with this commanding release.
Just as at ease with the repertoire of jazz, pop or classical as he is with the music of the increasingly varied brass band genre. His formidable technique and superb, malleable tonal qualities also come with an added extra. He ain’t half a pretty damn good pianist too.
Flight
Sebastien Rousseau
Brass Band Buizingen
Featuring: Longbow
Conductor: Luke Vertommen
Buma Stemra Recordings: 201820
Total Playing Time: 79.48 mins
A performer of rare musicality, performing works that showcase a remarkable degree of inventiveness, (including six premiere performances) and a sustained degree of virtuosity.
The centre piece is a remarkable collaboration entitled , ‘The Scarlet Flower’ with the Longbow String Ensemble, that gives such an artistic performer free reign to display the full range of his extensive abilities.
Sempre Libera
David Thornton
Brighouse & Rastrick
Conductor: Prof. David King
Doyen Recordings: DOYCD326
Total Playing Time: 60.25 mins
A wonderful release that showcases a performer of the most tasteful subtlety and refinement - but one that can also play with such startling precision that he could double up as a laser guided arc welder in his spare time.
Each track has that stamp of authentic 24 carat purity running through it - right down to the fantastically bonkers finale that puts a hypnotic buzz bang in the central cortex of your brain.
The Cornet Heritage Collection - Volume II
Richard Marshall
Black Dyke
Conductors: Dr Nicholas & Dr Robert Childs
Doyen Recordings CD325
Total Playing Time: 67.54 mins
A release that may well recall a musical past that is fast fading from the collective consciousness, but in doing so it also reinforces Richard Marshall’s reputation as one of the finest cornet players of this, or any other generation.
However, despite the age of the repertoire, it is not a homage dipped in musical aspic: The eleven tracks are presented with a tender freshness, to give each an engaging immediacy.
The Symphonic Euphonium
David Childs
BBC National Orchestra of Wales
Conductor: Bramwell Tovey
Chandos: CHAN10830
Total Playing Time: 78.44 mins
The crowning achievement of euphonium repertoire - given performances of simply regal splendour and authority.
From the elegant nobility of the Horovitz and colorful immediacy of the Wilby, to the austere substance of the Hoddinott and the playful zest and sheer virtuosity of the Jenkins - it is playing as good as any renowned orchestral soloist in the world.