On “Celebrate (Sound the Trumpet!),” David Longoria does what he does best: bridge the gap between classical tradition and modern innovation. This single, released on August 27, 2024, sees Longoria tapping into the rich Baroque history of Henry Purcell’s original “Sound the Trumpet” from 1694. What he delivers, however, is more than just an homage; it’s a bold reimagining that infuses the work with a contemporary spirit, while staying true to its 17th-century roots.
Longoria, a Grammy-nominated trumpeter and composer known for his cross-genre adventures, takes a daring leap into the classical arena with this latest offering. Here, he doesn’t merely play with Purcell’s composition; he reinvents it, adding his own flair with a baroque trumpet, backed by a lush arrangement featuring a string quintet, harpsichord, and church organ. This instrumentation sets a grand stage for the vocal talents of Mezzo Soprano Diana Tash and Tenor AJ Teshin, whose powerful performances add depth and drama to the track.
The single’s foundation is Purcell’s original composition, a piece that was first performed to celebrate the birthday of Queen Mary II. Longoria’s interpretation pays homage to the joyous spirit of the source material, but his signature style — blending classical form with modern dynamism — shines through. The result is a vibrant, celebratory piece that builds on Purcell’s choral brilliance, adding an almost cinematic sweep, underlined by the soaring harmonies of the California Chorale.
What makes “Celebrate (Sound the Trumpet!)” particularly captivating is its fusion of styles. Longoria manages to uphold the historical integrity of Purcell’s work while injecting his adventurous trumpet lines, playing with a joyous exuberance that feels both fresh and timeless. Meanwhile, the interplay between Tash’s radiant mezzo-soprano voice and Teshin’s robust tenor creates a vocal dialogue that is both intricate and emotionally compelling.
For Longoria, known for his work in jazz, gospel, and dance music, this single marks a return to his classical roots, while still exploring new territory. It’s the leading single from his upcoming classical debut album, set for release in Spring 2025. The album promises to feature trumpet classics like Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto in E-flat, as well as collaborations with European symphony orchestras and renowned classical artists.
As for Diana Tash, her luminous vocals have garnered acclaim across the globe, and here she brings a commanding presence that is both subtle and powerful. Similarly, AJ Teshin, whose voice has graced everything from Disney’s “Frozen” to “The Lion King,” offers a nuanced counterpoint that highlights the operatic grandeur of the track.
“Celebrate (Sound the Trumpet!)” has already resonated with audiences, quickly climbing the iTunes Classical Top 200 singles chart. It’s easy to see why: the track offers a masterful blend of historical homage and contemporary energy. Longoria’s creative audacity pays off, resulting in a piece that not only honors Purcell’s legacy but also pushes the boundaries of what classical music can be. “Celebrate (Sound the Trumpet!)” is not just a tribute to the past; it’s a call to celebrate the present, in all its dynamic, multifaceted glory. And if this first single is any indication, Longoria’s upcoming album is set to be one for the ages.
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