Search - Irving Berlin, John Henry, Jr. Hopkins, Christmas Traditional :: Trombones Under the Tree

Spectacular Instrumental Xmas CD--not just for trombonists!

Dr. Christopher Coleman | HONG KONG | 12/16/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Admittedly, as a trombonist myself I am predisposed to love this CD. The playing is uncanny, with impeccable intonation and such gorgeous tone quality to bring tears to a trombonist's ears...um, eyes. M. Dee Stewart, formerly of the Philadelphia Orchestra and professor of trombone at Indiana University, brought together three of his star pupils for this recording: Joseph Alessi, principal trombonist of the New York Philharmonic and winner of the 2002 International Trombone Association Award; Mark H. Lawrence, principal trombonist of the San Francisco Symphony, and Carl Lenthe, formerly trombone solist with the Bavarian State Opera (!) and currently professor of trombone at Indiana University. Their playing is superb, and more than one high F comes out so easily and beautifully my jaw dropped.And although every trombonist NEEDS this CD, there is also a wide appeal for non-trombonists. At its best it is very beautiful. Joy To The World and The Christmas Song are absolutely gorgeous. At its worst, Trombones Under the Tree is like really good Musak, listenable but a touch bland, but perfect for Christmas parties and tree-trimming. The CD contains 30 (!) tracks, ranging from traditional carols (We Three Kings, Deck the Halls, Silent Night, etc.) to Classical favorites (Sheep May Safely Graze, selections from the Nutcracker, etc.) to pop standards (White Christmas, Let It Snow, etc.). Most of the arrangements are terrific and show a similar variety--the majority are for trombone quartet alone, but some are arranged for quartet accompanied by rhythm section. We Three Kings gets a tongue-in-cheek treatment in 5/4 reminiscent of Dave Brubeck's Take Five. Nutcracker Sketches (arranged by Carl Lenthe) demonstrates stunning playing but may annoy purists who find the tempi too slow (no matter how good you are, a trombone just isn't a violin or clarinet!) and the concept inappropriate. The Arabian Dance, however, is absolutely terrific, and the whole is clearly deferential to the original."

Simply Awesome

Randy R. Wallen | Balboa Island, CA United States | 07/08/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"How anyone could rate this CD under 5-Stars is a myestery to me!?! The playing and arrangements are AWESOME! Do yourself a favor, buy this CD as well as "The Hollywood Trombones - Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." The Balboa Bachelors weren't disappointed and you won't be either!"

Enjoyable Holiday Music

Jazzbone | Shippensburg, PA United States | 09/05/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is a wonderful album of holiday favorites. All selections are outstanding performances, making this a welcome addition to any CD collection. The music will be especially appreciated by fans of the trombone, but the outstanding musical quality makes it pleasant listening for all."