For decades now, it has become an inspiring, passionate challenge for musicians of all musical directions,
to interpret Modest Mussorgsky"s "Pictures at an Exhibition”.
This latest interpretation comes from Austrias Jazzensemble "Heavy Tuba" on their new Cd.
Heavy brass like tubas, euphoniums and trombones backed by a fabulous rhythm" section perform an innovating
jazzy arrangement written by pianist helmar hill and all that comes along with irresisitible sound-engineering.
After all, even if it"s pretty "heavy", there"s no need for Modest Mussorgsky to turn in his grave.
Heavy Tuba was founded by Heimo Schmid in 1993. The musicians are from the Upper Austrian classical and jazz scene. Three tubas, four euphoniums, doubling at times on trombone, als well as a rhythm section of five contributes to the perhaps untraditional sound. Since 1997 is the British vocalist Dorretta Carter a member of the ensemble.
The band cooperated with tuba soloists Jon Sass (4CDs), Howard Johnson and Joe Daley. Heavy Tuba combines classic, jazz, rock, funk and soul and cannot be compared to any other group. The common place or usual is not what „Heavy Tuba“ ist about.They present once again the virtouosity of modern tuba playing in its unique substance. Nevertheless, the good old themes cannot be denied – exactly the opposite. It is music that definitely goes in your ear, but cannot be cubbyholed or easily classified.
As well as concerts all over Austria Heavy Tuba has also taken part in:
Stainz Open (A)- Woodstock Revival Festival – as support for Alvin Lee Tuba Festival
Stadl-Paura (A) Tuba Festival, Dettenhausen (GER), Jazzfestival Montreux (CH), Juvavum Brass Festival (A)
Jazzfestival Vilshofen (GER)- as support for James Brown Elojazz & Blues Festival Oulu (FIN)
Lahti Brass Festival (FIN), Jazzfestival Maribor (SLO)
Discography
Faces 1994
Sagenhaft 1997
At Montreux Jazz Festival 2000
Pictures At An Exhibition 2003
