O.T. For lovers of brass orchestra.

[Bob Hart]

For those increasingly scarcer few who enjoy both old sally bands and Sigmund Romberg light opera, this is a rare little ears treat, a tender solo on euphonuem, a big brass bass ( oompa-pa ) instrument to the less knowledged but in the hands of the best has a much greater range than it is mostly permitted in musical orchestral composition.

At 2:28, note the bridge piece the arranger has inserted. In most popular recorded performances of the early 30s, this transition has always sounded a little artificial or forced. I think this arranger nailed it properly with entire simplicity. There were of course up against an approx 3.5 minute limit for the old 78 discs which might be why.

In the higher registers, this instrument in the hands of this player in a scoring stage could do some serious mood underscore, versus the comedic device it is used for more commonly. You be the judge.

Just shut your eyes and listen and if you are old and wrinkly enough, even enjoy.

Serenade from the Student Prince - Sigmund Romberg, arr. Luc Vertommen - YouTube

[Bruce Watson]

Nice......

[Warren Kawamoto]

There's a difference between playing notes and making music. This is music!