"Sound the Bells!" is a captivating album by The Bay Brass, released on March 8, 2011, under the Harmonia Mundi label. This collection showcases a series of American premieres for brass, featuring compositions that are both rousing and deeply moving. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, encompassing 14 tracks that highlight the ensemble's virtuosity and the richness of modern classical music.
Conducted by notable figures such as Michael Tilson Thomas, Alasdair Neale, Robert Ward, Jeffrey Budin, and Bruce Broughton, the album includes a variety of pieces that range from fanfares and marches to hymns and elegies. Notable tracks include "Sound the Bells!", "Fanfare for a Festive Occasion," "O magnum mysterium," and "Spirals," each offering a unique blend of brass instrumentation and compositional brilliance.
The Bay Brass, a San Francisco-based ensemble, delivers a powerful and nuanced performance, making "Sound the Bells!" a standout release in the world of contemporary classical music. Whether you're a fan of brass ensembles or simply appreciate the intricacies of modern compositions, this album promises an engaging and enriching listening experience.