Posted by Bob Schmelzer on November 18, 1999 at 07:28:31:
Hello all tuba enthusiasts,
I had the wonderful opportunity last week to hear a really GREAT, newly
released, solo CD album by Steve Sykes, the British Eb tuba
soloist/conductor/clinician.
The title of his debut solo disc is appropriately named, "Sykology," as
Steve's serious musicianship but fun-loving personality are so evident
throughout this entire 58 minute CD. I was astounded by the clarity of his
tone and sheer beauty of his performance. Also delightful are the ample
demonstrations he provides of his complete mastery of the instrument from
the slow and delicate passages right through to his extreme range and
technical abilities. Steve is accompanied by pianist, Brendan Ashe, who
adds a warm and very musical recital-like quality to the performance.
If you want to hear a true tuba virtuoso at work, you simply must locate
this CD. Items included are: 1. Escapade, Turrin 2. Ave Maria,
Schubert/Sykes 3. Carnival Cocktail, Sykes 4. Syrinx, Debussy 5.
Liebesfreud, Kreisler 6. Una Furtiva Lagrima, Donizetti/Sykes 7.
Variations on a Welsh Theme, Kneale 8. Berceuse De Jocelyn,
Godard/Molenaar 9. Swing Rag, Jackman 10. Lullaby, Wood 11. Czardas,
Monti/Sykes.
Produced by: PM Sound, Boosey & Hawkes, Steve Sykes and Besson, London.
Listing number: PMSPCD M9927
Happy listening,
Bob Schmelzer, Illinois Brass Band
Libertyville, IL