The world of wind band literature has been enriched by two impressive new releases. With the albums “Kojiki“ by the Ad Hoc Wind Orchestra and “El amor brujo“ by the Symphonic Wind Orchestra Banda Artística de Merza, lovers of symphonic wind music are taken on a multifaceted journey through genres, styles and cultural influences. Here we present both CDs and highlight their highlights.
Kojiki – A cosmopolitan sound journey
The Ad Hoc Wind Orchestra under the direction of conductors Jean-Pierre Haeck and Hardy Mertens presents an impressive repertoire with “Kojiki”, which impressively demonstrates the versatility of modern wind orchestras. Published by HaFaBra Music, the album combines works by well-known contemporary composers with a pinch of nostalgia.
The compositions
The track list reads like an international who’s who of brass music. With works by Hayato Hiroshe, Quinci C. Hilliard and Rossano Galante, the stage is set for epic worlds of sound. There are also original contributions such as the summer hit from 1970, “In the Summertime“, and classical influences, for example from Paul Linckewhose “Glowworm” certainly pays homage to the great tradition of brass music.
The title “Kojiki“, composed by Quinci C. Hilliardwhich musically interprets the Japanese myth surrounding the historical work of the same name. The compositions are characterized by a playful alternation between traditional and modern elements, which makes the album both entertaining and challenging.
Highlight
The interplay of harmony, percussion and melodic accents is masterful. The orchestra deserves special praise for its interpretation of Jean-Pierre Haeck’s own work, which highlights the ensemble’s tonal versatility.
El amor brujo – Spanish passion and international classics
The second highlight comes from the Symphonic Wind Orchestra Banda Artística de Merza under the direction of David Fiuza. The title track, “El amor brujo“, is one of the most famous compositions by the Spanish composer Manuel de Falla. The new recording, published by Baton Music, not only celebrates Spanish musical traditions, but also opens up to a broader international repertoire.
The compositions
In addition to de Falla’s powerful work, the album contains an exquisite collection of classical and modern pieces. Works by Francisco Asenjo Barbieri and Federico Chueca transport the listener to the vibrant Spain of the 19th century, while George Gershwin and Alexis Emmanuel Chabrier bring French and American influences into play.
The emotionally gripping setting of Pietro Mascagni’s Intermezzo from Cavalleria rusticana is another highlight that underlines the orchestral richness of this ensemble’s sound.
Highlight
The interpretation of Enrique Granados‘ pieces emphasizes the detailed dynamics and virtuoso interplay of the musicians. With precise direction and passion, the orchestra succeeds in capturing the musical essence of the works.
Conclusion: Two albums that inspire
With “Kojiki“ and “El amor brujo“, two leading ensembles present works that appeal to fans of both traditional and modern wind band literature. While “Kojiki” offers a cosmopolitan journey through different musical styles, “El amor brujo” captivates with Spanish passion and international elegance. Both CDs are must-haves for any collection and underline the diversity and quality of contemporary wind band music.
For connoisseurs and newcomers alike, these recordings are a real treat – sounding proof of the creative power of the wind orchestra!