Immerse yourself in the resplendent world of Baroque music with Alison Balsom's "Royal Fireworks," a captivating collection of celebrated classics and hidden gems. This 57-minute journey, released on Warner Classics, showcases Balsom's virtuosity on the trumpet and her deep affinity for the Baroque era, which she affectionately refers to as the "golden age."
The album opens with a stunning rendition of Handel's "Music for the Royal Fireworks," expertly orchestrated by Simon Wright. Balsom and her ensemble navigate the piece's grandeur with acute stylistic integrity, offering a thrilling listen from start to finish. The disc also features works by Purcell, Bach, and Telemann, each performed with the same level of precision and passion.
Balsom is accompanied by the Balsom Ensemble, a group of world-class musicians hand-picked for their exceptional talent and shared love for Baroque music. Together, they breathe new life into these timeless compositions, making "Royal Fireworks" an essential addition to any classical music lover's collection.
From the celebratory to the solemn, "Royal Fireworks" offers a diverse range of moods and styles, all united by Balsom's commanding presence and the ensemble's impeccable playing. Whether you're a seasoned classical aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a rewarding and enjoyable listening experience.
Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks, HWV 351: I. Overture (Adagio)George Frideric Handel, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble, Simon Wright
Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks, HWV 351: II. Allegro - Lentement - AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble, Simon Wright
Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks, HWV 351: III. BourréeGeorge Frideric Handel, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble, Simon Wright
Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks, HWV 351: IV. La Paix (Largo alla siciliana)George Frideric Handel, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble, Simon Wright
Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks, HWV 351: V. La RéjouissanceGeorge Frideric Handel, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble, Simon Wright
Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks, HWV 351: VI. Minuet 1George Frideric Handel, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble, Simon Wright
Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks, HWV 351: VII. Minuet 2George Frideric Handel, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble, Simon Wright
Purcell: Trumpet Sonata in D Major, Z. 850: I. AllegroHenry Purcell, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble
Purcell: Trumpet Sonata in D Major, Z. 850: II. AdagioHenry Purcell, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble
Purcell: Trumpet Sonata in D Major, Z. 850: III. AllegroHenry Purcell, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble
Bach, JS / Arr. Wright: Cantata No. 147, Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben, BWV147: Jesu, Joy of Man's DesiringJohann Sebastian Bach, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble
Telemann: Trumpet Concerto in D Major, TWV 51:D7: I. AdagioGeorg Philipp Telemann, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble
Telemann: Trumpet Concerto in D Major, TWV 51:D7: II. AllegroGeorg Philipp Telemann, Alison Balsom
Telemann: Trumpet Concerto in D Major, TWV 51:D7: III. GraveGeorg Philipp Telemann, Alison Balsom
Telemann: Trumpet Concerto in D Major, TWV 51:D7: IV. AllegroGeorg Philipp Telemann, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble
Bach, JS / Arr. Wright : Weihnachtsoratorium, BWV 248, Pt. 1: No. 1, Jauchzet, frohlocket, auf, preiset die TageJohann Sebastian Bach, Alison Balsom, Balsom Ensemble
Alison Balsom is a renowned English trumpet soloist, arranger, producer, and music educator, celebrated for her virtuosity and innovative approach to her instrument. Born in Hertfordshire, Balsom's journey began with a trumpet belonging to her uncle, leading her to perform with prestigious ensembles like the National Youth Orchestra and the Gustav Mahler Youth Orchestra. Her career has seen her collaborate with leading orchestras worldwide, from the LA and Hong Kong Philharmonics to the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. Balsom's discography spans 11 albums, showcasing her versatility on both modern and baroque trumpets. She has been honored with numerous accolades, including Artist of the Year at the 2013 Gramophone Awards, three Classic BRIT Awards, and three German Echo Awards. Beyond her musical achievements, Balsom is an advocate for female brass musicians and has served as the artistic director of the Cheltenham Music Festival. Her performances, including a memorable solo at the BBC Last Night of the Proms in 2009, have captivated audiences globally, solidifying her status as one of the most influential trumpet soloists of her generation.
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Alison Balsom
