Search - Giuseppe Verdi, Niccolo Paganini, Arthur Sullivan :: Wallace Collection: The Origin of the Species (Virtuoso Victorian Brass Music from Cyfarthfa Castle, Wales)

The Wallace Collection- The Origin of the Species

mikekelsey | Sturgeon Bay, Wi USA | 07/22/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording, using period instruments, is the best demonstration of the real proficiency 19th century artists must have had. And John Wallace's group have coped beautifully with the intonation problems the old high pitch (A442+) can present to an ensemble. Additionally, ther combination of keyed bugles,rotary and early piston valved intruments give a 'sweet' tonality unheard today. Finally, as as an owner of an old ophecleide, it's great to hear this baritone/bass member of the keyed bugle family played by real artists. And of course, John Wallace himself shows on an old cornet, the Herbert L. Clark virtuosity for which he is famous. Mike Kelsey, Wisconsin/France"

Brilliant performances

GS Monks | Saskatoon, Canada | 08/12/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The highlight of this recording is Ferdinand Herold's overture from Zampa, the performance alone of which is worth the price of the recording.



The ophicleides and keyed bugles are played with the same style and loose, easy swing as the rest of the band. There's nothing stiff or stodgy about any of the performances.



John Wallace's work on this recording is exemplary because he shines when required but does the true accompanist's job of feeding the overall performance when the focus is elsewhere- as do the other strongest players in the band.



Few recordings have given me such pleasure and are able to deliver on endless listenings. This sound recording is a rare gem, indeed."