The American Brass Quintet presents "Premier!", a captivating album released in January 2000 under Summit Records. This collection of chamber music showcases the ensemble's mastery and versatility, featuring a blend of classic and contemporary pieces composed specifically for brass quintet. The American Brass Quintet, formed in 1960, is renowned for its dedication to performing music originally written for this instrumentation, and "Premier!" is no exception.
The album spans a diverse range of compositions, including the intricate and dynamic "Brass Quintet No. 2" by Daniel Asia, which opens with an "Allegro vigoroso" and continues through an "Arioso" and a lively "Scherzo." The "Distant Voices" suite pays tribute to notable figures such as James Agee, Bobby Hackett, and Br. Paul Diveny, as well as a heartfelt dedication to the memory of Jim Henson through "Ben And Mark: My Son." The "Brass Quintet" series offers a journey through various moods and tempos, from the tentative and slow to the solemn and spirited "Come Prima."
"Premier!" also includes the "Triptych" series, featuring a "Canzona," a "Threnody," and a "Fuga," each piece demonstrating the ensemble's technical prowess and emotional depth. The album is a testament to the American Brass Quintet's commitment to chamber music, offering a rich and engaging listening experience that highlights the beauty and complexity of brass ensemble performances. With a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, this album is a must-listen for fans of chamber music and brass ensembles alike.
