"Royal Eurostar: Celebratory Music for Brass" is a vibrant and dynamic album released by the London Brass Virtuosi in 1996 under the Hyperion label. This instrumental album is a celebration of brass music, featuring a mix of fanfares, suites, and concert music that showcase the ensemble's virtuosity and the rich, powerful sounds of brass instruments.
The album opens with "The Royal Eurostar," a fanfare composed by Paul Patterson, which sets the tone for the rest of the album. It also includes the "William and Mary" suite by Derek Bourgeois, a five-movement work that tells the story of the joint reign of William III of England and Mary II of Scotland. The suite is a highlight of the album, with each movement depicting a different event or aspect of their reign.
Another standout piece is the "Konzertmusik for Strings and Brass, Op. 50" by Richard Strauss. This two-movement work is a testament to the ensemble's skill and versatility, with its complex rhythms and harmonies.
The album also features several fanfares, including "Paris Fanfare" and "Brussels Fanfare," which add a sense of grandeur and celebration to the album. The "Feierlicher Einzug der Ritter des Johanniter-Ordens" (Solemn Entry of the Knights of the Order of St. John) is another notable piece, with its solemn and majestic tone.
With a duration of just over an hour, "Royal Eurostar: Celebratory Music for Brass" is a comprehensive exploration of brass music, from fanfares and suites to concert music. The London Brass Virtuosi, under the direction of David Honeyball, deliver a powerful and engaging performance that showcases the full range of the brass ensemble. Whether you're a fan of classical music or just looking for something new and exciting, this album is sure to impress.
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