Rebecca Coupe Franks – Landscape Suites For Trompettes

RCF records & Publishing – Street date : January 20, 2025
Jazz
Rebecca Coupe Franks – Landscape Suites For Trompettes

As suggested by the title, this work lies at the intersection of jazz and classical music, serving as an excellent example for the youngest generations of musicians nurtured on classical traditions. It underscores the truth that all artistry is a matter of vision. When one possesses an expansive cultural foundation, as Rebecca Coupe Franks does, the creative process seems to unfold almost effortlessly.

The structure of her compositions reveals her classical training, lending a melodic depth and texture to the pieces. Her meticulous arrangement ensures each instrument is given its proper place on the score to achieve the most exquisite effects. For this project, the composer and trumpeter chose to collaborate with a small chamber orchestra, resulting in a touching, harmonious work structured into seven tableaux—a pleasure to hear.

I often emphasize the broad cultural foundation every great musician must cultivate. Beyond formal studies, artists are compelled to explore a variety of realms to build their own artistic identity and contribute meaningfully when creating original works. Rebecca Coupe Franks exemplifies this principle, having worked alongside legends such as Clark Terry, Walter Davis Jr., Laurie Frink, Norman Simmons, Slide Hampton, Kenny Barron, Cindy Blackman Santana, Virginia Mayhew, Mulgrew Miller, Gregory Hutchinson, Yoron Israel, Kevin Hays, Scott Colley, Tito Puente, Art Blakey, Hank Jones, Claire Daly, Jimmy Heath, Laura Dryer, Brad Mehldau, Javon Jackson, Donny McCaslin, and others.

Undoubtedly, the musicians involved here appear to relish immersing themselves in her compositions. Rebecca Coupe Franks’s works are true gems, inviting performers to achieve the finest sound to honor her artistry. Her trumpet playing is equally remarkable, adapting to the needs of each piece, shifting between character and actor as required. She weaves seamlessly between classical and jazz rhythms, blending them so deftly that the result is a singular work capable of captivating audiences across genres.

The contribution of every artist featured on this recording deserves recognition: Jeff Siegel on drums and percussion, Rich Syracuse on bass, Jessica Jones on tenor saxophone, Stephen Minor and Gwen Laster on violins, Larry Teitze on clarinet, Susan Seligman and Patricia Santos on cellos, Marissa Trees on flute, Carol Cowan as conductor, and, of course, Rebecca Coupe Franks as trumpeter and composer. Thanks to their collective efforts, this work has come to life. Just as in the theater, where a director’s vision is elevated by the performers’ unique contributions, the perspectives of these musicians have enriched this project beyond its initial conception.

2025 begins with a flourish, showcasing ambitious and diverse projects like this one. They reaffirm, if proof were needed, that jazz in its myriad forms is more vibrant than ever. The orchestral approach employed here offers a refreshing take on large jazz ensembles, establishing a trajectory worth pursuing. In my estimation, Rebecca Coupe Franks, alongside Yelena Ekemoff in her distinct style, stands at the forefront of this innovative fusion.

This is not the first time we’ve spotlighted Rebecca Coupe Franks, and with this release, she secures her place among our “Essentials.”

Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News

PARIS-MOVE, January 13th 2025

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