Sandstrom: Don Quixote / Wahlberg Variations

Dive into the world of Jan Sandström's "Don Quixote / Wahlberg Variations," a captivating album released in 1997 under the BIS label. This album is a testament to Sandström's compositional prowess, blending classical elegance with contemporary flair.

The album kicks off with "Emperor's Chant (Kejsarvisan)," a powerful and evocative piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. The centerpiece is Sandström's Trombone Concerto No. 2, "Don Quijote," a multi-movement work that draws inspiration from the timeless tale of Don Quixote. Each movement paints a vivid scene, from the whimsical "A Windmill Ride" to the introspective "To believe in an outrageous dream." The concerto showcases the trombone's versatility and Sandström's ability to craft a narrative through music.

The second half of the album features the "Wahlberg Variations," a suite inspired by the paintings of Swedish artist Nils Wahlberg. These variations are a delightful exploration of color and form, each movement named after a specific painting, such as "Car Wrecks" and "The Gibbon Ape at Vincennes." The album concludes with "A Short Ride on a Motorbike," a lively and energetic piece that brings the collection to a thrilling close.

With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a rich and rewarding listen, offering a diverse range of musical experiences. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate well-crafted compositions, Jan Sandström's "Don Quixote / Wahlberg Variations" is sure to impress.