Composer: Christian Lindberg (b. 1958), Axel Jørgensen (1881-1947), Egil Hovland (b. 1924), Jan Sandström (b. 1954)
Works: Mandrake in the Corner, Suite for Trombone and Orchestra, Concerto for Trombone and Orchestra Op. 76, Cantos de la Mancha
Performers: Christian Lindberg, trombone; Singapore Symphony Orchestra; conducted by Lan Shui
Recording: Recorded at Victoria Concert Hall, Singapore, March 2000
Label: BIS
Christian Lindberg’s “Mandrake in the Corner” stands as a compelling testament to the trombone’s versatility and the inventive spirit of contemporary Scandinavian music. Lindberg, known for his virtuosic technique and charismatic stage presence, steps into the dual role of soloist and composer with this work, which was inspired by the comic character Mandrake the Magician. The piece is a vibrant exploration of theatricality and musical color, weaving through a landscape of dramatic contrasts that evoke a cinematic quality. The juxtaposition of the trombone’s rich, brassy tones against the orchestral backdrop creates a vivid tableau, reminiscent of film noir aesthetics.
The recording features an engaging performance from the Singapore Symphony Orchestra under Lan Shui, whose direction maintains a dynamic interplay between orchestral forces and soloist. Lindberg’s interpretation of his own work is marked by an acute sense of rhythm and flair, particularly evident in the first movement, where the driving momentum is matched by orchestral accents that punctuate the narrative. The central section, characterized by a sultry, almost sleazy atmosphere, is effectively painted with lush string textures and muted brass, evoking the smoky ambiance of a late-night bar. The final movement’s frenetic pace is executed with impressive stamina, showcasing Lindberg’s technical prowess as he navigates the rapid passages with precision and flair.
Positioning Lindberg’s concerto alongside works by Jørgensen, Hovland, and Sandström offers a rich tapestry of trombone repertoire. Axel Jørgensen’s “Suite for Trombone and Orchestra,” though historically overlooked, reveals moments of melodic interest amidst its conventional framework. The work reflects the composer’s dual identity as an orchestral musician and composer, and while it may lack the memorability of more frequently performed pieces, it provides a curious contrast to the more vibrant offerings on the disc. Egil Hovland’s “Concerto for Trombone and Orchestra Op. 76,” composed in the 1970s, showcases a bracing Nordic spirit, with Lindberg masterfully handling its technical demands. The first movement’s opening evokes Shostakovich in its starkness, while the haunting slow movement offers a poignant lyrical contrast that lingers in the listener’s memory.
Jan Sandström’s “Cantos de la Mancha” emerges as a standout work, distinguished by its imaginative scope and incorporation of Quixotic themes. Sandström employs a variety of extended techniques and sound effects that challenge both the performer and the listener, creating a richly textured sonic experience. The five movements playfully engage with episodes from Cervantes’ literary classic, and Lindberg’s execution is both theatrical and technically assured, particularly during the rapid shifts in tone and character that define the piece. The orchestration is vibrant, with moments of serene beauty juxtaposed against visceral outbursts that reflect the tumultuous journey of its titular character.
The sound quality of this BIS recording is commendable, capturing the full spectrum of the trombone’s timbre and the orchestral palette with clarity and depth. The engineering allows for a realistic representation of the performance space, enhancing the listener’s engagement with the music. Compared to other notable recordings in the trombone repertoire, this disc not only highlights the technical demands of the featured works but also showcases the rich interpretative possibilities available to the soloist.
This collection ultimately reaffirms the trombone’s stature within contemporary orchestral music, particularly when championed by a performer as skilled as Christian Lindberg. His ability to navigate the diverse emotional landscapes presented by these works, combined with the supportive orchestral playing, creates a compelling listening experience. The disc serves both as a celebration of contemporary composers and as a reminder of the trombone’s unique voice in the orchestral realm, making it a valuable addition to any serious classical music collection.
