Imperial Brass. July 7, 2011. Photo by Ted Aanensen, Blogfinger staff
By Paul Goldfinger
Last night, in the Great Auditorium, the first Summer Stars 2011 Thursday concert was held. The Imperial Brass is a fine organization of about 30 musicians who play brass instruments like euphoniums, horns and trumpets. They put on a two hour program of music from Leroy Anderson to Tchaikovsky. It was excellent, but then Phillip Smith, the evening’s soloist, showed up mid way in the event. Phil is an Ocean Grover who lives on Pilgrim Pathway. But he also happens to be the Principal Trumpet of the New York Philharmonic.
Phillip Smith, Principal Trumpet, New York Philharmonic. Photo by Ted Aanensen
He told the audience that there is “joy in Ocean Grove” and that being here “refreshes our spiritual souls.” He had my attention when he said that he was our neighbor, but I was mesmerized when he played his first solo, called “Jubilance” by William Himes. It was absolutely lovely, and his tone and phrasing were magical. It never ceases to amaze me how superb the musical programs are in this little town with its big musical heritage. Here, for $15.00, was one of the world’s best musicians, playing for us live…no microphone; just him inside the big cello of an auditorium, with an ensemble of accomplished brass players (also unamplified) to back him up. I don’t know how it is that so few people come to these events.
Later in the program Phil’s wife Sheila Smith, a soprano, sang an enjoyable Broadway medley and then a duet with her husband and piano accompaniment on the standard “They Can’t Take That Away From Me.” Phil also soloed on”What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” but I really enjoyed his turn, with piano, with Gershwin’s “Someone to Watch Over Me.” I took the liberty of recording that gorgeous solo with my iPhone, and here it is. It’s not exactly a professional audio crew, but enjoy the sound of a brilliant musician who also is our neighbor—–Philip Smith:
Truly lovely.
Thanks,
Jane
Norm: When you’re right, you’re right. The lead trombonist with the Imperial Brass–Robert Tiedemann–was indeed excellent in his solo outing on Peter Graham’s “A Time for Peace.” Also wonderful was the lead trumpet player–Mitch Brodsky who got to perform a cornet duo with Phillip Smith. In addition, Mr. Tiedemann cheered up the crowd when he brought his two young female trombone colleagues up–Julie Krygsman and Liz Fackleman—to do David Rose’s “Holiday for Trombones.” I was impressed with how youthful most of those fine musicians were.
So Norm: Are you done? Thanks for butting in. Paul PS: I’m not really a music critic; I just play one in Ocean Grove.
As a music critic Paul, one would have hoped that you at least acknowledged the utterly fantastic trombone soloist’s performance.
Bravo! On all accounts. Gordon is a treasure for sure and has raised the bar sky high on this Summer Stars program. Phil did a fabulous job and your description was spot on. The Imperial Brass did a fine job as well. Now about all those folks that don’t know the tradition of standing when the flag is lit, we’ll have to work on that. Great review!!
I am glad you attended. It is a great review. I was there and agree.