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Photograph of trumpet in piano |
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1. Janus - Herald and Introspection, for Trumpet and Piano, (8:50) Composed by David Erskine, Dec 14-18, 1995 For the January 6, 1996 recital I invited my trumpet playing step-brother Richard House to participate, to play some pieces with accompanist Irene Jacobson, and I to play my solo piano pieces (now tracks on CD Expressions and CD Self-Portrait). With 3 weeks to go, I took the opportunity of Rick's presence to try my hand at a trumpet-piano piece, and I composed this piece "Janus" for the occasion. This was actually my first performance accompanying another live player. I wanted a cheerful heralding piece to begin the concert, so Janus begins with a joyful counterpoint. The middle section is dark and brooding to act as a foil. With these light/dark contrasting sections, it seemed appropriate to name the piece after the Roman god Janus, who is identified with doors, gates, and all beginnings and is represented artistically with two opposite faces. |
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info@pineshadow.com
Oakland, California
info@pineshadow.com
Samples from CD Janus (2010)
Janus (Herald section) snip1,
Janus (Introspection section) snip2
Reviews of CD Janus (2010)
Well.. I listened to Janus while I was in Japan and again when I got back today. I can only say; thank you, it is wonderful. That is also the opinion of my attorney and good friend over there, Keiko Ohara who is also a well regarded concert pianist. She said that you and I need to find an excuse to go to Japan for the TEDI project so she can meet you. It is a rare privilege to hear such wonderful music and to know the composer/artist. I played it for some friends today and they were also thrilled. I think it evokes an emotion of pastoral calm that truly engages. And it is impossible to believe that you are self taught!!! Thanks...send more tracks. —Bob E.
I listened to Janus this morning. It's beautiful! I really like it with the trumpet; your step-brother is really good! I hope you get to re-record the pieces. They really should be on a cd. You and Rick sound great together! —Rosemarie D.
I just love the trumpet and piano combination and your compositions and arrangements...well, you've got something grand and special in creativity....—Connie T.