Old World to New Age

Product Description

“Old World to New Age” traverses the musical timeline from Baroque to Contemporary. The works encompass several genres – vocal, orchestral, and solo instrumental – that Gary Ross and Lawrence Kursar creatively arranged for this unique trio. From the “Old World” Band du Soleil presents Manfredini’s Concerto – originally written for two trumpets and orchestra – and Purcell’s “Sound the Trumpet” – originally written as a vocal duet. Mozart’s “Alleluia” – from “Exultate Jubilate” and composed for soptrano and orchestra – takes on a new life as a trio for brass and piano. The journey from the “Old World” continues to the opera stage with transcriptions of the arias from “Gianni Schicchi”, “The Barber of Seville” and the exquisite duet from “The Pearl Fishers.” Moving to Russia, the hauntingly beautiful “Vocalise” of Rachmaninov and the colorful excerpts from Moussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition” lead the transition to the New Age. Satie’s “Gymnopedie” create a fascinating atmosphere of mysticism and exoticism. George Gershwin’s “Classic Medley” is a collage of his classic works “Piano Preludes I & II” and “Rhapsody in Blue.” The journey into the “New Age” culminates with jazz arrangements of timeless spirituals from the African -American culture.

Review

“…it was one of the best programs we have had in our Arts Series since it began eight years ago.” —
Phillip Lowe; Hill College Performing Arts Series; Hillsboro, TX; January 2003

“The musicianship of Band du Soleil was superb, warmly-presented, and warmly-received by an enthusiastic audience.” —
Robert Rowe; Ruidoso Community Concert Association; Ruidoso, NM; April 2003

“Your combo and arrangements are excellent… I greatly look forward to hearing Band du Soleil again!” —
Sarah Baxter; St. James Piccadilly Concerts; London, England; June 2002