Choral et Toccata

The Chorale (lento espressivo) is reminiscent of the subtle and haunting polyphony of the Renaissance in which sombre phrases slowly overlap and are heard in a perspective of infinity. The structured changes of uneven time signatures (7/8, 5/8, etc.) that characterize the subsequent fast and spectacular Toccata require intense concentration and involvement from each performer. It is a course of gripping rhythmical, technical and musical virtuosity. Chorale & Toccata is dedicated to Erich Rinner, former principal trumpet of the Munich Philharmonic and professor at the Tirol State Conservatory (Austria) and was played by the “Trumpet Ensemble” made up of Rinner’s professional students when they won the 1st prize at the 1999 International chamber brass music competition in Passau (Germany). (jpm)