This album presents four dynamic and contrasting 20th-century concertante works for trombone, performed by virtuoso soloist Christian Lindberg, with leading Nordic ensembles and conductors.
Arabenne (1996–97) is Lindberg’s own composition for trombone and strings. Emerging from glissando motifs and rhythmic pizzicato patterns, the piece evolved into something mysteriously “Arabian” in tone, inspired in part by sonic memories of Jerusalem. Not programmatic, but rich in expressive techniques—voice and lip multiphonics, growls, Bartók pizzicati—it highlights the trombone’s sensual and melodic character.
Concerto No. 12 (1950) by Vagn Holmboe is a concise, one-movement work with a three-part structure. Its flowing contrasts between energetic and tranquil sections reflect Holmboe’s belief in the concerto as musical dialogue and drama. Lindberg restores the original cadenza after discussion with the composer.
Concerto for Trombone and Wind Instruments (1995) by Mats Larsson treats the trombone as a “vocal soloist” in a miniature drama. Inspired by operatic thinking, the concerto unfolds as a journey through shifting emotional “rooms,” blending melancholic lyricism with occasional bursts of burlesque vitality.
Symphony No. 9 (1993–94) by Kalevi Aho is a symphonic work with the trombone as protagonist. Traversing past, present, and future, it employs multiple trombones—including sackbut and alto—and harpsichord, creating stylistic displacements and temporal shifts. The cadenza demands advanced multiphonic techniques, while the final bars radiate joy and life.
Together, these works affirm Christian Lindberg’s extraordinary role as performer, collaborator, and innovator—pushing the expressive boundaries of the trombone.
