The Dodworth Saxhorn Band is a recreation of the original Dodworth Band of New York City, which was the premier brass band in the United States from the 1840s to the 1880s when brass bands were a ubiquitous aspect of American life. The bands, formed in virtually every city and town, not only were the musical center of their communities but also performed the important function of keeping the locals abreast of the goings-on in the wider musical world. Military band conductor and composer Claudio Grafulla’s (1810-80) arrangements of popular operas in many cases were the only exposure to these works their audience was likely to get. It’s these selections–Freischutz Quick Step, Nabucco Quick Step, and Un Ballo in Maschera Quick Step–that provide the most interesting and compelling listening in this collection. Given the stylistic constraints of the march form (you did notice all the above were “quick steps” didn’t you?), the original melodies and rhythms were adapted to fit the form, much like the way reggae artists can make an American pop tune sound like one of their own. Still, anyone familiar with original operas will recognize the tunes quite easily. Of the remaining numbers, Delavau’s Quick Step is notable for its Spanish coloring in the trio and Grafulla’s Favorite Waltz distinguishes itself mainly by not being yet another “quick step”.
Under Paul Eachus’ knowledgeable and dedicated leadership, the Dodworth band gives spirited and authentic-sounding (as far as anyone currently living can tell) performances of these little ditties, all recorded in robust sound by New World. If you’re curious about what the rest of America–outside the opera and concert halls–was doing musically in the 19th century, this album offers some intriguing and entertaining insight. [3/29/2002]
