“Eclectus”: Duet for Trombone and Piano
Composed by Brendan Collins
November, 2007.
Reviewed by Mark Bradstreet
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWNQANdDm8w
As a composer it is clear that Brendan Collins deserves recognition for his well composed and energetic piece “Eclectus”, but also clearly displays his excellence as a sound performer too. The quality of this piece was not solely in is compositional elements, but was heavily enhanced by a well rehearsed and engaging performance. Brendan Collins (trombonist) and Denise Papaluca (pianist) appear to both play with such confidence and conviction, which is what helps to create the driving force that empowers this performance.
Although this particular piece in this case was performed for the purpose of an audio and visual recording as opposed to a live audience, in no way does it take away from your ability to enjoy the performance. I found that the slightly more casual atmosphere of this performance allows you to appreciate the piece for its subtleties, and to perceive the performance without the sometimes unnecessary pressure and demand of a live formal performance. Pianist Denise Papaluca clearly makes for a great accompanist in this performance, and interacts well musically with Brendan Collins. Both musicians complement one another’s playing through their smooth, fluent and musically expressive tone.
Composer and Trombonist Brendan Collins really controls the piece well with a cool, calm and collected appearance. As the composer, Brendan Collins has written this piece in a way that allows the trombonist (himself in this case) to conduct the emotions and assertions of the piece through two distinct themes. These themes appear near the beginning of the performance, and are repeated again towards the later part, and hold the importance of much of the performances structure and formality. Brendan Collins acknowledges this through equally well articulated and phrased themes during the performance. Whether you may be an aspiring performer, composer, or just someone who enjoys a great piece, this performance is well worth viewing wherever your interests lie.
