Description
Recording sample from “Vibrant Colors: Brass Music of Douglas Hedwig” (MSR1811)
Uddmāya take its title from the Sanskrit word, meaning “to make known or announce; as by means of the conch shell or trumpet.” Inspired by the classical vocal music of India, the work is a fusion of traditional Indian and Western classical styles. Drawing upon Indian modes (scales) within the melodic construction, the trumpet ensemble at times imitates the complex rhythms and meters associated with Hindustani tabla (drum) accompaniment. Of particular note is the extensive use of various mutes which provide a wide range of color and texture, as well as the frequent doubling for piccolo trumpet and flugelhorn.
– Douglas Hedwig
Commissioned by Eric Siereveld and the Altus Trumpet Ensemble.
Douglas Hedwig:
The music of Douglas Hedwig (born 1951) has been performed throughout the U.S., Italy, Germany, England, Scotland, Belgium, South Korea, Thailand and Indonesia. Praised for the “coherent, yet adventurous character of his compositions” [Opus Klassiek, Netherlands), his music embraces “a wide range of musical styles…and showcases the eloquent sincerity of a contemporary American voice” [International Center for American Music].
Winner of both the Gaetano Amadeo Prize (Italy) and The American Prize in composition, Hedwig is recipient of awards and honors from the Siena Art Institute (Italy), Brush Creek Foundation for the Arts, and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. Prior to turning his full creative attention to composition in 2012, he was a trumpet player with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra for 27 years.
Dr. Hedwig is Professor Emeritus at the Conservatory of Music at Brooklyn College of the City University of New York, and was formerly on the faculty of The Juilliard School (NYC).
https://www.douglashedwig.com/
