Marie Schneider

CD1.

Four lengthy tracks of music composed and arranged by Marie Schneider. A thinking man's excursion up to and often beyond the outer reaches of big band music. Never swinging in the accepted sense of the traditional big band, Ms. Schneider's arranging occasionally slips into an intense pseudo swing mode.The general mood is passionate, evocative and sometimes jarring. Life is like that I suppose!

Technically the writing is outstanding; the appeal to creative musicians must be irresistible and you can expect to find her music appearing in a few libraries. There is no doubt that, as with many of the new writers who are adjusting the language of ensemble writing; Ms Schneider's music will be taken apart and will influence new writers. A comparisons can be helpful to guide potential purchasers. I suppose that one must think of Jim McNeeley and Bob Brookmeyer.

CD2.

7 shorter tracks , composing credits shared between M. S. and Kurt Weill; the arrangements are of course Marie Schneider's.The same influences are to the fore. The music comes to the point a little quicker with shorter tracks. Where standards are used, they are all but submerged; fragments appear and disappear intriguingly, you may miss the point if you are not concentrating.

Bearing in mind the arranger's will was to intrigue, excite and uplift; I suppose she has succeeded, thinking fans will enjoy the music. Traditional supporters may be confused; no-one enjoys change but eventually and occasionally sub-consciously, the product benefits.

As for the performance by the SWR Big Band, directed by the arranger; as ever I find the chameleon quality of the orchestra copes beautifully with this new music and produces an exhilerating compact disc set that will be enjoyed by many.

I have copies here in the U.K.

CD1

CD2