As a musician, my journey has been a captivating exploration of the vast realms of classical and jazz music. My albums, “The Voice of the Trumpet” and “Mademoiselle in New York,” are a testament to this musical odyssey, weaving together a tapestry of classical and jazz works that resonate with the depths of my heart. The repertoire for these albums, as well as my latest endeavor, “Piazzolla Stories,” is a reflection of my love for the pieces that speak to me on a profound level.
At the heart of my musical endeavors is the unwavering support of the fantastic team at Warner Classics. Their encouragement empowers me to follow my instincts, allowing my music to emanate directly from my heart. The selection of repertoire is a deeply personal process for me; I choose pieces that I love to play and hear. The eclectic mix of classical and jazz in my albums is a deliberate choice, driven by my passion for both genres.
The absence of trumpet repertoire in romantic music intrigued me, leading me to explore transcriptions and arrangements to fill this void. In “Piazzolla Stories,” I sought to embrace the diversity of my career, much like the legendary Astor Piazzolla did in his time. Piazzolla’s inspirations, which include surprising figures like Bach and Paganini, fascinated me. To pay homage to this influence, I incorporated Bach’s Violin Sonata, Paganini’s Caprice 24, and Galliano’s Tango pour Claude into the album.
Astor Piazzolla’s global travels and his association with the renowned Nadia Boulanger in France left an indelible mark on his music, particularly his iconic tangos. I found it fitting to include one of Boulanger’s compositions in the album, as she stands as an extraordinary female composer in the classical realm. The arrangements for “Piazzolla Stories” were a collaborative effort, an intricate dance of creativity that unfolded amid the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The virtual landscape of Zoom became the canvas for many of the conversations with my collaborators during this tumultuous time. One individual who played a pivotal role in shaping the arrangements for the album is Jérôme Ducros. His artistry breathed life into the pieces, capturing the pulse of the tangos and infusing them with various stylistic nuances. The arrangements on the album, crafted with meticulous care by Ducros, resonate with me on a profound level, adding a layer of richness to the musical narrative of “Piazzolla Stories.”
Piazzolla’s journey as a musician and composer involved a continuous exploration of diverse repertoire, styles, and professional relationships. In a similar vein, my work on “Piazzolla Stories” allowed me to delve into new musical territories, pushing the boundaries of my artistry. The experience of navigating through different instrument combinations and professional collaborations mirrored Piazzolla’s own trajectory, creating a synergy between his legacy and my musical exploration.
As I immersed myself in the process of bringing Piazzolla’s stories to life through my trumpet, I discovered the profound impact of his music on subsequent generations. Piazzolla’s ability to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries resonates with me deeply. It serves as a reminder of the universal language that music speaks, connecting people across time and space.
Conclusion
“Piazzolla Stories” represents not only a musical journey but also a celebration of diversity, collaboration, and the timeless beauty of music. The album is a testament to the enduring influence of Astor Piazzolla, whose innovative spirit continues to inspire musicians across genres. As I reflect on this musical expedition, I am reminded of the power of art to transcend challenges and bring people together, creating a harmonious tapestry that weaves through the fabric of time.
