Florian Weber 
Imaginary Cycle 
(ECM Records)
 

 
THIS is music for piano, brass ensemble and flute written by the German composer and pianist Florian Weber: an unusual line-up that makes for a bold and exciting sonic journey. 

Weber on piano is joined by a group including four euphonium players, a trombone quartet as well as flautist Anna-Lena Schnabel and Michel Godard on the little used tuba “serpent” instrument.

Together they perform a work that blurs the line between where improvisation ends and composition begins. The cycle is spread over four main sections: Opening, Word, Sacrifice and Blessing, all bearing ritualistic connotations.