Noteworthy Takeaways from “Danzón”
Rather than give a formal review, here are some noteworthy takeaways from listening to Danzón by Ilan Morgenstern.
- With “Danzón No. 2,” all the inflections from the orchestration are squeezed into this bass trombone and piano collaboration. Both artists complement the nuances of melodic runs by stepping out of the spotlight to let the other step forward and shine. Over-exaggerations in phrases are purposely obvious in this musical dance.
- “Le Grand Tango” is a Tour de Force! of range and stamina, clocking in at 11 minutes of varying tempi and musical form. With a strong, confident opening, Morgenstern showcases his definitive voice of high and low range, coupled with technical finesse to match the nature of the music unequivocally.
- Within “Three Sketches of Covid-Times”, the countless moods we all physically and emotionally experienced are portrayed in this selection, first with the leisurely feel of “Quarantine Drag.” “Sorrow and Isolation,” the extended, cadenza-like sounds from Morgenstern offered a somber reflection on those troublesome times. “DoorDash Mambo” presents the hurry and scurry flair we are still used to for online food ordering and delivery. Morgenstern and Gilliland are in sync with the multiple soli sections throughout this final movement.
- “Eastern Folk Dances” continues that flare of dance-like sound as Morgernstern steps around the melodies in varying registers. In the third movement, “Vivace,” the sounds of multiphonics are heard. The increasing tempo is not a problem for Morgenstern, as clarity in each articulation is clearly evident.
- For 10 Horn Studies by Gilliland, Morgenstern beautifully phrases each etude as a study in melodious song, pulling as much interpretation out of each study. In particular, with its slow tempo, “Study No. 4” is a mastery of control in lip slurs and trills. Based on melodies by Brahms, Morgenstern displays that the well-known composer can sound beautiful on any instrument!
- “Carne Ahmada” continues the tango-esque flare heard throughout the entire album, exuding a smile from the listener!
- It’s been nearly ten years since Last Row Music reviewed the sounds of Morgenstern. One thing that has stayed consistent has been the absolute command of the double-valved instrument. The high register sings in song, the low register maintains its graceful feel and fat tone when needed. The collage of musical styles throughout Danzón continues to elevate the voice of the bass trombone as a solo instrument.
Personnel:
Ilan Morgenstern – Bass Trombone
David Gilliland – Piano
Jim Hopson – Trombone
Chris Haas – Percussion
Track List:
1. Danzón No. 2
2. Le Grand Tango
3. Three Sketches of Covid-Times: Quarantine Drag
4. Three Sketches of Covid-Times: Sorrow and Isolation
5. Three Sketches of Covid-Times: Doordash Mambo
6. Eastern Folk Dances I. Allegro
7. Eastern Folk Dances II. Adagio Malinconico
8. Eastern Folk Dances III. Vivace
9. Horn Study no. 1 Allegro
10. Horn Study no. 2 Adagio
11. Horn Study no. 3 Allegro
12. Horn Study no. 4 Maestoso
13. Horn Study no. 5 Allegro Vivace
14. Horn Study no. 6 Moderato
15. Horn Study no. 7 Moderato
16. Horn Study no. 8 Allegro
17. Horn Study no. 9 Andantino
18. Horn Study no. 10 Allegro
19. Carne Ahumada
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