Alessi: In Full Bloom

Album Description

Experience the mastery of renowned trombonist Joseph Alessi in his latest album, "Alessi: In Full Bloom," a captivating collection of classical and contemporary pieces that showcase his virtuosic talent and deep musicality. Released on September 10, 2024, under the prestigious European Gramophone label, this album is a testament to Alessi's artistry and his ability to breathe new life into both familiar and lesser-known works.

The album opens with "Songs from Silver Lake," a suite of five original compositions that highlight Alessi's compositional skills and his unique voice on the trombone. Each movement, from the serene "Shore" to the dynamic "Swells," offers a glimpse into Alessi's creative vision and technical prowess. The album also features works by some of the most celebrated composers in classical music, including Malcolm Arnold, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Johann Sebastian Bach.

Alessi's rendition of Arnold's "Fantasy for Trombone" is a standout, showcasing his ability to navigate the piece's technical demands with ease and expressiveness. The album also includes Mozart's "Duo No. 2 K 487," performed with a sensitivity and nuance that reveals Alessi's deep understanding of the composer's style. Bach's "Three-Part Invention No. 3" is another highlight, demonstrating Alessi's skill in interpreting and performing Baroque music on the trombone.

In addition to these well-known works, the album features "Requerdos De Girona," a set of three pieces inspired by the landscapes and culture of the Girona region in Spain. These compositions offer a unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements, providing a refreshing contrast to the other works on the album.

Throughout "Alessi: In Full Bloom," Joseph Alessi's playing is characterized by its warmth, clarity, and technical brilliance. Whether he is performing original compositions or classic works, Alessi's artistry shines through, making this album a rewarding listening experience for both classical music enthusiasts and those discovering the trombone's expressive potential for the first time. With a duration of just over 21 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful showcase of Alessi's talents, featuring collaborations with esteemed musicians Christian Lindberg and Ian Bousfield.

10 september 2024

2024 European Gramophone

About Joseph Alessi

Joseph Alessi is a renowned American classical trombonist, celebrated for his role as the principal trombonist of the New York Philharmonic since 1985. Born in Detroit, Michigan, and raised in San Rafael, California, Alessi's musical journey began under the guidance of his father, a professional trumpet player. His early prowess was evident when he performed as a soloist with the San Francisco Symphony while still in high school. Alessi's career is marked by his versatility and innovation, not only as a soloist and chamber musician but also as an educator, having taught at prestigious institutions such as the Curtis Institute, Temple University, and the Manhattan School of Music. His contributions to the trombone repertoire and his unique approach to sound and phrasing have made him an idol in the classical music world. Alessi's recordings and performances are a testament to his artistry, offering listeners a rich and resonant experience that showcases his mastery of the instrument.