Roland Szentpali

Earth Voices

Inspired by a text by L. Kövesdi, "Earth Voices" ("Voices of the Earth") gives the solo tuba the role of a true singing voice—a voice that rises, reflects, and rears up, carried by the warm tones of a brass ensemble. The work begins in a contemplative mood, in which the soloist’s line unfolds expansively and expressively over a supple, colorful tapestry of sound. Free, almost improvised passages allow the tuba to breathe and engage in dialogue with the ensemble with great freedom of phrasing. Then the music ignites: A fiery presto unleashes the soloist’s full energy and virtuosity in a brilliant rhythmic torrent, in which the brass instruments respond spiritedly, culminating in a dazzling finale. Combining deep lyricism with unbridled virtuosity, "Earth Voices" presents the tuba in a striking light—alternately singing, powerful, and leaping. A challenging and spectacular concert piece that offers the soloist a magnificent opportunity to showcase the full range of his expressive power.