Steven Mead has launched his latest solo CD entitled 'Lyrical Virtuoso', and has told 4BR that it is one that marks something of a personal milestone in his career.
Steve has recorded many CDs since his first release, 'Rondo' in 1991, and those that have followed have enjoyed widespread critical and popular acclaim — as well as winning numerous awards.
Return to style
However, 'Lyrical Virtuoso' marks a return to a style of performance genre that he believes is in danger of being lost in the modern era of high powered pyrotechnics.
In 2005 he recorded 'Euphonium Virtuoso', with the outstanding Belgian ensemble Brassband Buizingen and ever since he has enjoyed a close musical collaboration and friendship with conductor Luc Vertommen, who Steve believes is a visionary arranger as well as fine conductor.
Re-establish the perfect instrument
He told 4BR: "11 years after our first partnership seemed the ideal time to mark a new collaboration, so we decided to go back to the recording studio and make a second album together.
I also wanted it to re-establish the euphonium as the perfect instrument to showcase lyrical beauty alongside technical artistry, so the title tells you all you really need to know! Luc shares my musical passions and was the perfect person to help create our vision. "
Great taster
As a great little taster of what you can enjoy with 'Lyrical Virtuoso' you can see Steve in action with snippets from each of the pieces on youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4BXZx0E79A&feature=youtu.be
Added bonus
In addition, the first 100 CDs are also being signed by Steve — so if you are quick you may get one with an added bonus!
Six new works
The CD will see premiere recordings of six works — all of which will also be published by Steve for performers who also wish to further enhance their solo repertoire.
He added: "The compositions cover a long time-line period — from the influence and works of the legendary violinist composer Niccolo Paganini to the marvelous 'Euphonium Concerto No.1' by John Golland.
All though combine artistry and lyricism that I'm sure performers and listeners alike will appreciate and enjoy.
It's what I believe sets the euphonium apart — a lyrical virtuosity that we can never afford to lose."
All though combine artistry and lyricism that I'm sure performers and listeners alike will appreciate and enjoy. It's what I believe sets the euphonium apart — a lyrical virtuosity that we can never afford to loseSteven Mead
Personal milestone
He concluded: "I have to confess to being very excited about the new CD. It's one I've wanted to make for many years — so it marks a personal milestone I am very proud of."
Lyrical Virtuoso is available from: http://euphoniumstore.net/home.php as well as World of Brass, iTunes, Amazon and Apple Music
