Mary Elizabeth Bowden | Storyteller: Contemporary Concertos for Trumpet Review

by Illiam Sebitz

Mary Elizabeth Bowden’s recording, Storyteller: Contemporary Concertos for Trumpet, beautifully captures the essence of innovation and youthful exuberance. This album, featuring the prodigious talents of trumpeter Bowden, the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra (CYSO), and Allen Tinkham’s masterful conducting, reflects the power of collaboration and the bright future of classical music.

Mary Elizabeth Bowden, an artist of remarkable virtuosity and warmth, brings a distinct voice to the trumpet. Her performance on this album is nothing short of extraordinary, marked by a blend of technical precision and emotive depth. Praised by Gramophone Magazine for her “splendid, brilliant” playing, Bowden continues to push the boundaries of the trumpet repertoire, and her commitment to this project is evident in every note.

Bowden’s career is decorated with accolades, including a Gold Medal from the Global Music Awards and a nomination for the Opus Klassik. Her efforts to expand the trumpet’s repertoire through creative commissions and collaborations have set her apart as a leading figure in modern classical music. In this album, she showcases her technical prowess and her ability to convey profound narrative through her instrument.

The Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Allen Tinkham, delivers a vibrant and nuanced performance. Tinkham’s conducting is marked by a clear vision and an ability to draw out the best in his young musicians. His reputation as an inspiring conductor and educator is well-deserved, as he manages to lead the CYSO with a blend of precision and passion. The orchestra’s performance on this album is a remarkable achievement, demonstrating a maturity and cohesion that belies their youth.

Tinkham’s influence on the CYSO has been transformative. Recognized for his adventurous programming and commitment to contemporary music, he has won numerous awards, including nine from the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP). This recording shows his dedication to fostering young talent and his ability to bring contemporary works to life.

The album opens with James M. Stephenson’s “The Storyteller,” a piece that pays homage to the legendary trumpeter Adolph Herseth. Bowden’s interpretation is powerful and nuanced, capturing the spirit of the piece with remarkable clarity. The CYSO provides a robust and dynamic accompaniment, setting the tone for the rest of the album.

Clarice Assad’s “Bohemian Queen” is a standout work, drawing inspiration from the life and art of Gertrude Abercrombie. The concerto’s integration of classical form with jazz spontaneity is handled deftly by Bowden and the CYSO. The second movement, “The Stroll,” particularly highlights Bowden’s ability to navigate complex musical landscapes with ease, while the orchestra supports her with a rich, textured backdrop.

Vivian Fung’s “Trumpet Concerto,” written specifically for Bowden, traverses a spectrum of emotions. From struggle to triumph, this episodic work is a tour de force that challenges and expands the traditional boundaries of the trumpet. The CYSO’s performance here is nothing short of revelatory, matching Bowden’s intensity and sensitivity at every turn.

Tyson Davis’s “Veiled Light” offers a musical interpretation of James Abbott McNeill Whistler’s “Nocturne in Black and Red.” The piece captures the serene yet dynamic reflection of urban nightscapes, with Bowden’s trumpet evoking the interplay of light and shadow. The CYSO’s delicate handling of the score enhances the atmospheric quality of the work.

Sarah Kirkland Snider’s “Caritas,” originally a song for mezzo-soprano, is reimagined for trumpet. Bowden’s performance is imbued with a sense of strength and grace, celebrating the power of the Female Divine. The orchestra’s accompaniment is lush and supportive, creating a profound sonic tapestry.

Reena Esmail’s “Rosa de Sal,” inspired by Pablo Neruda’s Sonnet XVII, explores the fusion of Western and Eastern musical traditions. Bowden’s trumpet navigates the Hindustani raag of Puriya Dhanashree with elegance and depth, while the CYSO provides a rich, textured backdrop that enhances the piece’s emotional resonance.

The album concludes with Stephenson’s “Scram!,” a spirited display of musical virtuosity. Bowden and the CYSO deliver a thrilling performance, bringing the album to a dynamic close.

Storyteller: Contemporary Concertos for Trumpet is a remarkable achievement for all involved. Bowden’s virtuosity and expressive depth, combined with the youthful energy and precision of the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra under Allen Tinkham’s inspired direction, make this album a special project for the classical genre and keeping it alive. Overall, Storyteller: Contemporary Concertos for Trumpet is a shining example of what can be accomplished when exceptional talent, dedication, and visionary leadership come together to create something truly special. This album shows the trumpet’s voice in contemporary classical music and highlights the genre’s bright future, embodied by the incredible achievements of these young musicians supporting Bowden’s elegant trumpet performances.

Storyteller: Contemporary Concertos for Trumpet

Release Date: June 14, 2024

Label: Cedille Records

About the author

Illiam Sebitz

Born and raised in a picturesque European village, my fondness for music began during my formative years, when the charismatic tones of the recorder first filled the halls of my primary school. This early fascination escalated into my lifelong pursuit of embracing the melodious charm of the flute; I have even spent time refining my skills at a music conservatoire. As a seasoned music connoisseur, I find myself captivated by the multifaceted world of music. I enjoy writing music reviews to better enable me to explore genres as diverse as world, rock, jazz, classical, folk, and film music, each offering a unique auditory journey that enriches my life and intellect.

In my spare moments, you'll likely find me meticulously crafting my latest woodworking project, sharpening my skills with flute etudes, or inventing tales of fantasy through the art of creative writing. My eclectic interests and expertise harmonize to create a symphony of passion and curiosity that resonates within every aspect of my life as a music enthusiast.