“The Lark” (Ciocârlia in Romanian) is a traditional Romanian gypsy tune, relentlessly performed over the years by countless “Lautari” (traditional Balkan musicians)
“The Lark” (Ciocârlia inRomanian) is a traditional Romanian gypsy tune, relentlessly performed over the years by countless “Lautari” (traditional Balkan musicians). It is thought that Anghelus Dinicu first performed a version of this in 1889 for the inauguration of the Eiffel Tower. A more standardised version featuring violin was made popular particularly within the Balkan community by Anghelus’ grandson GrigorasIonica Dinicu. This arrangement for brass dectet is typical of the version popular with today’s Balkan Brass Bands. Whatever the structure and instrumentation “The Lark” has become a staple of the Balkan repertoire. The incessant trills and ornamentation (notated or improvised) imitate the sound of birdsong.
Jock McKenzie studied trumpet at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester where he was a joint recipient of the college’s concerto prize. Since 1987 Jock has based his musical career in Hampshire, working as a freelance trumpeter, conductor, composer, arranger and brass teacher. Currently Jock holds the position of Professional Leader (Brass) for Hampshire Music Service and is the Director of the Hampshire County Youth Band. It is the mix of all of these musical roles that has led to Jock establishing a reputation as a leading creator of brass music resources, particularly in the field of education and brass ensemble music.
