The talented brass ensemble from the Royal Academy of Music opened with the recently-discovered 'Festival Fanfare' by Malcolm Arnold. With a cinematic feel and references to 'Sussex by the Sea', it also included an unusual feature with a cornet echoing the three trumpets.
Michael Tilson-Thomas's 'Street Song' may have been rather tough listening for some Regent Hall regulars, but it undoubtedly displayed the talents of the group to fine effect.
Its three movements; 'Slow', 'Relaxed' and 'Moderate Swing' encompassed a wide range of styles, including some regulated slow trombone glissandi as used by Alan Hovhaness.
Challenge
A challenge of a different sort was posed by Barber's 'Adagio' - originally written for string quartet before being expanded for string orchestra. The long, sustained lines and slow tempo called for great control and concentration, and it was good to hear BBC Young Musician brass finalist Michaias Berlouis on contrabass trombone.
The ensemble was directed by the renowned trombone virtuoso Ian Bousfield, and he stepped into the spotlight as soloist in 'Three Scenes for American Trombone and Brass Orchestra'.
Lively dance
The first movement, 'Stravousa', had elements of the circus as well as the march, not to mention a luscious melody for the soloist. 'Hymn' opened with the soloist unaccompanied, before being joined by the brass chorale, whilst the finale, 'Una Cancion de tres Americas', had a lively dance feel, including a duet with the bass trombone with vibraphone backing.
As an encore they presented Samuel Barber's 'Mutations from Bach' - included following an impressive performance in a concert the previous evening.
The final programmed item was Giancarlo Castro D'Addona's 'Grand Fanfare'; starting with antiphonal trumpets and trombones and a driving horn line. The prominent piccolo trumpet role was well featured and the music captured the essential Latin American feel throughout.
As an encore they presented Samuel Barber's 'Mutations from Bach' - included following an impressive performance in a concert the previous evening.
There was particularly impressive playing by the horns and tuba at the start and it brought an excellent concert to a close.
Peter Bale
