Search - Dexter Morrill, William Koehler :: Morrill: Music for Trumpets

An Overview of Morrill's Music for Trumpet

Dr, Mark Ponzo | Chicago, IL | 06/12/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This recording was made with the composer serving as the recording engineer for each session. This disc was completed over a period of 11 months, focussing on one piece at a time. We felt that it was important to record all of this music to serve as a reference for the many players who are unfamiliar with Dex's music. The majority of the disc represents the first recording of the music. The most interesting and most difficult selections involved using the trumpet with the computer. All of the computer sounds were recording acoustically while I was playing along with them in order to achieve a more ambiante sound. I have performed Dex'x music in over 40 recitals nationwide. Trumpet players who have heard his music really seem to enjoy the creativity and trumpet-like nature of his writing. While listening to the disc, keep in mind that some of the computer sounds were generated in the 1970's and at that time were "State of the Art" for computer generated music. Dex feels that these sounds should not be re-recorded with current technology and represent an imoportant period in the development of computer sounds.We felt that the trumpet should be represented in a variety of settings on the disc and you will find solo trumpet, a duet for two trumpets, a duet for trumpet and computer, a concerto with piano, and a quartet of trumpets with computer.The language of Dex's music is contemporary with a very melodic content. Each of the pieces have a clear structure and inventive character.I had a wonderful time learning all of this music and spending so much time with the composer. I hope that you enjoy listening to the results of our work."