Trumpet Calls is written for twenty C trumpets in five separated
groups, each with a unique character and an associated name: Fat
n' Sassy, Agitated, Heroic, Bellows, and Echo. The
five characters are released, one at a time, into the same space,
and then things get interesting. (duration 5:15)
Of special note, the group called Bellows
is directed to play with “Clang/Buzz” mutes. These are
made by folding the edges of an aluminum pie tin over the edges
of the trumpet bell. When played, they rattle and buzz with a sound
that is as unforgettable as it is difficult to describe. Needless
to say, this is not your grandfather’s trumpet ensemble.