Pitch Black

Dive into the captivating world of brass music with Wim Van Hasselt's "Pitch Black," a mesmerizing collection of meticulously arranged pieces that showcase the versatility and richness of the brass ensemble. Released on January 1, 2017, under the prestigious Channel Classics label, this album spans a diverse range of compositions, each uniquely arranged for brass by Steven Verhelst and Stéphane Labeyrie.

"Pitch Black" features 17 tracks, including works by renowned composers such as Carlo Monza, Alessandro Scarlatti, and Béla Bartók, alongside contemporary pieces by Jacob TV. The album opens with a lively arrangement of Carlo Monza's "Harpsichord Suite No. 1: Allegro" and takes the listener through a variety of moods and styles, from the playful "Sevilla - Sevillana" to the energetic "Romanian Folk Dances."

Wim Van Hasselt, a virtuoso trumpeter, is joined by an ensemble of exceptional musicians, including Jörgen van Rijen and Stéphane Labeyrie, who bring their unique talents to this recording. The album is named after Jacob TV's piece for brass quintet and soundtrack, inspired by the legendary jazz trumpeter Chet Baker, adding a layer of intrigue and depth to the collection.

With a duration of just under an hour, "Pitch Black" is a testament to the artistry of Wim Van Hasselt and his collaborators. The album's diverse program and impeccable performances make it a standout in the world of classical brass music.