Search - Natalia Bolshakova (piano), Keith Johnson, Mark Ford :: UNconventional Trumpet

John Holt: UNconventional Trumpet

R. Bogard | Dallas TX, USA | 12/26/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"UNconventional Trumpet is the second CD by University of North Texas Professor of Trumpet John Holt. Holt, who is Principal Trumpet of the Dallas Opera Orchestra, and his accompanist Natalia Bolshakova make a stunning duo on this fine recording which should be in the library of every serious trumpet player. Both players exhibit first-rate technique and phrasing in their interpretations of these works.



For UNconventional Trumpet, Holt has delved into the archives at North Texas to record eight works, most of which were inspired by the legendary John J. Haynie. Haynie was professor of trumpet at the University of North Texas, and taught over 750 students at the university from the beginning of his tenure in 1950 until his retirement in 1990.



Some of the works on the CD such as Martin Mailman's Concertino for Trumpet, William Latham's Suite for Trumpet, and Fisher Tull's Three Bagatelles, are standards in the college trumpeter's repertoire. Other works by Merrill Ellis, Rule Beasley, and Larry Austin are lesser known, but no less listenable. The newest work on the CD is the 2004 Fanfare for Trumpets by University of North Texas composer Cindy McTee. On McTee's exciting work, Holt is joined ably by his trumpet colleague at UNT, Keith Johnson. Holt has also recorded the CDs Facets and Facets 2 which were released on the Crystal label in 2004.

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