Jean-François Michel

Chorale et Toccata

5 trumpets and bass trumpet (or euphonium)

The chorale (lento espressivo) is reminiscent of the subtle and haunting polyphonies of the Renaissance in which the sober movements slowly move over one another and intertwine in a perspective of infinity. The permanent changes of irregular beats (7/8, 5/8, etc.) that characterize the spectacular and lively Toccata demand high concentration and commitment from every member of the ensemble. It is a course of captivating rhythmic, technical and musical virtuosity. Written for and dedicated to Erich Rinner - then principal trumpet of the Munich Philharmonic and professor at the Tyrolean State Conservatory - Choral et Toccata was played by the 'Trompetenensemble des Tiroler Landeskonservatorium Innsbruck' when it won first prize at the International Brass Chamber Music Competition in Passau (Germany) in 1999. (jpm)