Dive into the world of French trumpet concertos with Paul Merkelo's captivating album, "French Trumpet Concertos: Tomasi - Désenclos - Jolivet." Released on January 27, 2015, under the prestigious Groupe Analekta, Inc. label, this 44-minute masterpiece showcases Merkelo's virtuosity and the rich, expressive capabilities of the trumpet.
The album features a stunning collection of works by three prominent French composers: Henri Tomasi, Jacques Désenclos, and André Jolivet. Merkelo's interpretation of these pieces is nothing short of breathtaking, with each track offering a unique blend of technical brilliance and emotional depth.
The album opens with Tomasi's "Concerto pour trompette et orchestre," a three-movement work that immediately showcases Merkelo's extraordinary range and control. The Allegro is a lively, energetic piece that sets the stage for the introspective Nocturne and the triumphant Finale.
Next, Merkelo takes on Jolivet's "Incantation, thrène et danse pour trompette et orchestre," a three-movement work that explores a wide range of emotions. The Incantation is a haunting, mysterious piece that draws the listener in, while the Thrène is a mournful, reflective work that showcases Merkelo's ability to convey deep emotion. The Danse is a lively, rhythmic piece that brings the work to a thrilling conclusion.
The album concludes with Tomasi's "Concerto pour trompette No. 2," a three-movement work that showcases Merkelo's technical prowess and musical sensitivity. The Mesto – Concitato is a dramatic, intense piece that builds to a thrilling climax, while the Grave is a slow, reflective work that showcases Merkelo's ability to convey deep emotion. The Giocoso is a lively, rhythmic piece that brings the work to a triumphant conclusion.
Throughout the album, Merkelo's playing is impeccable, with a tone that is rich, full, and expressive. His phrasing is sensitive and nuanced, and his technical control is flawless. The accompanying orchestra is also outstanding, providing a rich, supportive backdrop for Merkelo's playing.
In short, "French Trumpet Concertos: Tomasi - Désenclos - Jolivet" is a stunning album that showcases the very best of French trumpet concertos. Merkelo's playing is extraordinary, and the accompanying orchestra is outstanding. This is an album that will delight and inspire listeners, and it is sure to become a classic of the trumpet repertoire.
