Led by Gordon Campbell, 22 trombonists from the Royal Academy of Music, accompanied by an accomplished trio of piano, string bass and drums, presented a varied programme of arrangements, sometimes as a large group and at others split into two. 

Idiomatic style

It was a mark of the standard of the all-round musical training offered by such an institution that so many players from the classical side of the course showcased their ability play in such an idiomatic style.

The full, balanced tones of the group were apparent from their opening number, 'Blueberry Hill'; with particular mention of the rich, smooth sounds produced by the bass trombonists. They continued with the theme from the 1970s American detective series 'Frank Cannon', with tight ensemble playing and effective use of cup mutes.

Lush harmonies

There were also some lush harmonies and shifting chords in 'Here's that Rainy Day', with Gordon himself soloing over the group, clearly in his element. Although it was unusual to hear 'Lassus Trombone' in a jazzed-up arrangement with a solo by Ollie Martin, Alex Kelly produced some wonderful sounds on bass trombone in 'The Pink Panther'.

Laid back shuffle

'Just a Closer Walk' was given a resolutely laid-back shuffle as if en-route to a New Orleans funeral, which splendidly contrasted with an up-tempo version of 'We're havin' a Heat Wave' and Stan Kenton's 'Rubens Blues' which saw the ensemble divided into two; the second (muted) group responding to the first, and featuring two jazz solos. 

They ended their short programme with a lively rendition of 'Twelfth Street Rag' - a fitting closer for a group of very talented young musicians with an eye for a career and a touch of irreverent fun.

Peter Bale