"Mozart for Brass" is a captivating 1993 release that brings together the timeless compositions of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with the powerful and dynamic sound of the Empire Brass ensemble. This album is a unique blend of classical genres, including opera, chamber music, and piano pieces, all masterfully arranged for brass instruments by Rolf Smedvig and Erik Smedvig. Recorded at the Berkshire Performing Arts Center in Lenox, Massachusetts, the album showcases the precision and artistry of the Empire Brass, capturing the essence of Mozart's music in a fresh and vibrant way.
The album features a diverse selection of Mozart's works, from the lively overtures of "The Impresario" and "The Abduction from the Seraglio" to the serene beauty of "Adagio in B-flat Major" and the energetic "Rondo alla turka" from Piano Sonata No. 11. The inclusion of pieces from "Eine kleine Nachtmusik" and the "Requiem in D Minor" adds depth and variety, making this album a comprehensive journey through Mozart's musical genius.
With a duration of just over an hour, "Mozart for Brass" is a testament to the enduring appeal of Mozart's compositions and the innovative arrangements that bring them to life in a new medium. The album's meticulous production and the Empire Brass's exceptional performance make it a standout release in the classical music genre. Whether you're a long-time fan of Mozart or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a fresh and exciting perspective on some of the most beloved pieces in the classical repertoire.
The Impresario, K. 486: Overture (Arr. E. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass
The Abducion from the Seraglio, K. 384: Chor der Janischaren. Allegro (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass, Richard Jensen, Everett Beale, Douglas Wright, Andrew Roe, Gary Peterson
The Abduction from the Seraglio, K. 384: Chor der Janischaren. Allegro vivace (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass, Richard Jensen, Everett Beale, Douglas Wright, Andrew Roe, Gary Peterson
Piano Sonata No. 11 in A Major, K. 331: III. Rondo alla turka (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass, Richard Jensen
Contradanse, K. 101 (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass
Three German Dances, K. 605: No. 3, Die Schlittenfahrt (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass, Richard Jensen
Adagio in B-flat Major, K. 411 (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass
Sonata No. 16 in C Major, K. 545 (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass, Richard Jensen
The Marriage of Figaro, K. 492: Overture (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass, Richard Jensen
Requiem in D Minor, K. 626: II. Kyrie (Arr. K. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass, Richard Jensen, Everett Beale, Douglas Wright, Ken Amis
Quintet for Horn & Strings in E-Flat Major, K. 407: III. Rondo. Allegro (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass
March in C Major, K. 408 (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass, Richard Jensen, Everett Beale, Douglas Wright, Andrew Roe, Gary Peterson, Ken Amis
The Abduction from the Seraglio, K. 384: Overture (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass, Richard Jensen, Everett Beale, Douglas Wright, Andrew Roe, Gary Peterson, Matt Carson
Exsultate, Jubilate, K. 165: III. Alleluia (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass
Eine kleine Nachtmusik, K. 525: I. Allegro (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass
Eine kleine Nachtmusik, K. 525: II. Romance. Andante (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass
Eine kleine Nachtmusik, K. 525: III. Menuetto. Allegretto - Trio (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass
Eine kleine Nachtmusik, K. 525: IV. Rondo. Allegro (Arr. R. Smedvig)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Empire Brass