Rick Sowash releases the world-premiere recording of the whimsical EP A Pirate’s Christmas. As well as the title track, It includes reissues of three other single-movement seasonal instrumental chamber works: 'King Arthur’s Court at Christmas,' 'A Christmas Rondo,' and 'Variations on the Boar’s Head Carol...'

The EP opens with 'A Pirate's Christmas', Sylvan Trio’s world-premiere recording of novel new work blending traditional carol melodies with ‘swashbuckling’ original tunes. It's novel and upbeat.

Does the world need a piratey Christmas EP? Probably not, but the fusion of the two well know musical styles makes for an interesting listen. All four tracks are treated with the reverence and respect they so rightly deserve, performed as though they were classic chamber pieces.

I have to admit that I enjoyed this rather festive offering. It makes a welcome difference from the usual festive releases.

Track listing:

01. A Pirate’s Christmas (2023) (6:11)
Sylvan Trio: Suzanne Bona, flute Josh Aerie, cello; Greg Kostraba, piano

02. King Arthur’s Court at Christmas (1979, rev. 2011) (5:44)
Cheryl Trace, violin; Thadeus Archer, trumpet Robert Clemons, cello; Greg Kostraba, piano

03. A Christmas Rondo (1976, rev. 2011) (10:30)
Kris Frankenfeld, violin; Belinda Burge, viola Ellen Shertzer, cello

04. Variations on the Boar’s Head Carol (1983) (7:14)
Mirecourt Trio: Kenneth Goldsmith, violin Terry King, cello; John Jensen, piano

7

Darren Rea