Composer: Various
Works: The Art of the Baroque Trumpet, Vol. 5
Performers: Niklas Eklund (baroque trumpet), Jeffrey Segal (trumpet), Maria Keohane (soprano), Wasa Baroque Ensemble
Recording: NAXOS 8.555099
Release Date: October 2001
Recorded at: Church of Jonsered, Sweden (1998)
Duration: [61:10]
In The Art of the Baroque Trumpet, Vol. 5, released under the Naxos label, listeners are treated to a vibrant exploration of the trumpet’s pivotal role within the rich tapestry of Italian Baroque music. This collection, featuring works from prominent composers such as Vivaldi, Torelli, and Albinoni, reveals the brilliance and nuance of the baroque trumpet, a period during which this instrument epitomized the exuberant spirit of ceremonial and operatic music.
The album opens with Vivaldi’s Concerto in C major, RV 537 for two trumpets and strings, a piece that sets a jubilant tone with its dynamic interplay between the solo instruments and the orchestral strings. Here, Niklas Eklund and Jeffrey Segal demonstrate exceptional technical prowess, navigating the rapid passages with precision while maintaining a joyous exuberance. Their performances are marked by a buoyant articulation that captures Vivaldi’s characteristic energy, yet they never succumb to the temptation of excessive flamboyance, thus preserving the work’s inherent charm.
In contrast, the reflective qualities of Torelli’s Sonata in D major for trumpet and strings provide a compelling counterpoint. Eklund’s playing reveals a lyrical sensibility that emphasizes the instrument’s capacity for expressive phrasing. The interplay between the trumpet and strings is particularly noteworthy; the trumpet’s bright timbre complements the warm textures of the strings, creating a dialogue that is both intricate and interwoven. This balance is a testament to the ensemble’s cohesive playing, which avoids the pitfalls of overpowering the more delicate instrumental lines.
Maria Keohane’s contributions as soprano are equally commendable. In pieces such as Vivaldi’s “Agitata da due venti” from Griselda, her voice soars above the instrumental fabric with a radiant clarity. Keohane’s interpretation is marked by an avoidance of excessive ornamentation, allowing the purity of the melodic line to shine through. This approach aligns her performance with the historical practices of the time, where the emphasis often lay on the natural beauty of the voice rather than on virtuosic display. Her ability to navigate the demanding high tessitura with both confidence and sensitivity adds a compelling layer to the ensemble’s overall sound.
The recording quality deserves special mention; the engineering captures the subtle nuances of each instrument, from the bright, penetrating sound of the trumpets to the rich textures of the strings. Recorded in the acoustically favorable setting of the Church of Jonsered, the sound is vibrant yet balanced, allowing each performer to be heard distinctly while maintaining an ensemble coherence that is crucial for the lively character of these works.
Historically, the pieces featured on this disc represent the high noon of the Italian Baroque, where the trumpet was celebrated not merely as a signaling instrument but as a sophisticated voice in its own right. The inclusion of lesser-known works, such as Albinoni’s “Vien con nuova orribil guerra” and Ziani’s “Trombe d’Ausonia,” showcases the variety and richness of the repertoire that, while overshadowed by the likes of Handel, deserves its place in the pantheon of Baroque music. Each piece, with its unique character, contributes to a broader understanding of the era’s musical landscape, illustrating the trumpet’s versatility in both celebratory and lyrical contexts.
In conclusion, The Art of the Baroque Trumpet, Vol. 5 is a commendable addition to the Naxos catalogue, one that not only delights trumpet aficionados but also serves as an accessible entry point for those wishing to delve into the vibrant world of Baroque music. The combined artistry of Eklund, Segal, Keohane, and the Wasa Baroque Ensemble results in a recording that is both historically significant and musically engaging. This disc is a testament to the enduring appeal of the baroque trumpet, inviting listeners to appreciate its brilliance in a repertoire that continues to resonate with vitality and charm.
