An instrument that receives less attention is the trombone. Like many other brass instruments, it is unusual to hear the trombone in a chamber music setting. But that is exactly what the cd Le trombone romantique dan la France du XIXe siècle offers. Trombonist Francesco Verzillo and pianist Danilo Dellepiane together bring a selection of idiomatic compositions and transcriptions for this unusual combination.
The trombone has existed for centuries but underwent a real transformation during the Romantic era when German, French and American trombone makers focused on the mechanics. The technical changes made it possible to play a greater tonal range. New musical potential ensured that the trombone conquered its place in the symphonic orchestra. An achievement that brought the instrument more repertoire.
One of the great admirers of the trombone in the orchestra was Hector Berlioz (1803-1869). His music could not be absent from a cd about Romantic trombone music. The well-known trombone solo [track 04] from the second movement of Symphonie funèbre et triomphale, Op.15 (1840) is an excellent choice here. As one of the first compositions to put the trombone in the spotlight, this version with piano is a work that could not be missing. The ominous piano chords and the melancholic trombone have been nicely balanced by Verzillo and Dellepiane.
A less successful transcription are the two works from Georges Bizet's (1838-1875) opera Carmen (1875). The interpretation of the "Habanera" [track 10] lacks a certain vitality in the piano. The lyrical passages of the trombone are better but are unable to save the whole. The "Danse des gitans" also lacks Spanish temperament in the piano. On top of that, some of the trombone passages feel too fast. As if the trombonist cannot keep up with the quick runs. Not a fitting closer for this cd.
The opening work, on the other hand, was perfectly chosen. The Andante e Allegro (1886) for trombone and piano by Hedwige Chrétien (1859-1944) is one of the later works on the cd. This female composer who was a pupil of César Franck manages through lyrical lines and long phrases to elegantly showcase the possibilities of this brass instrument. With emphasis on intonation, phrasing and tone color, Verzillo impressively opens the cd.
Apart from the last two works, this cd offers a nice selection of trombone works. It tells the story of the emancipation of the trombone in 19th century France. With a nicely chosen beginning with Berlioz through to later works such as the lyrical work of Chrétien and the virtuosic Solo de concours [track 05] by Adrien Barthe (1828-1898).
3.5/5
- WHO: Francesco Verzillo [trombone], Danilo Dellepiane [piano]
- WHAT: Le trombone romantique dan la France du XIXe siècle
- LABEL: Da Vinci C00630
- ORDER: JPC