Opera North musicians promote trombone in new album

An album of works for trombone is set to be released next week in an effort to promote the instrument, which is declining in popularity in the UK. Windows is a collection of works for trombone written by British composer Benjamin Ellin and performed by the Orchestra of Opera North with soloists Christian Jones, Joseph Alessi and Blair Sinclair.

The album is the first ever British record to be dedicated to both tenor and bass trombone concerti with orchestra. It serves the dual purpose of promoting the trombone (the bass trombone in particular) as a legitimate solo instrument and creating a core repertoire for the trombone.

Ellin said: ‘To have the opportunity to create these stories for musicians and exponents such as Joseph and Christian in these two main concerti is a great honour. Of course, like any solo instrument there are a raft of logistical and musical considerations to make when using an orchestra as their musical partners, but the trombone as a solo instrument brilliantly lends itself to the full spectrum of emotional, dramatical and theatrical possibilities. I hope this project inspires more composers to make their own contribution.’

The project is a joint effort between Ellin and Opera North bass trombonist Christian Jones. Ellin, himself a former brass player, met Jones while performing with the National Youth Orchestra (NYO) in 1996 and the two developed a strong partnership. Now a tutor with NYO, Jones has witnessed firsthand the trombone’s decline in popularity. This album is the latest in a series of efforts to promote the instrument; during the pandemic Jones helped to refurbish and distribute around twenty trombones to bands and schools in the Kirklees area.

Ellin added: ‘I know, as an ex-brass player, that any project featuring the giants of brass were always an inspiration to me as a young player so I hope we can do the same.’

Windows will be released on 7 July on MPR. You can pre-order the album here.