New Classical CD 'Echoes Of Earth' Released Worldwide

A new CD, which saw some of Melbourne's top young classical and jazz musicians coming together for an ambitious recording project staged at St Andrews Anglican Church, Brighton is now on sale online.

The CD features 13 tracks in all showcasing the fruits of a new Australian collaboration between flautist Jessica Zuk, pianist and composer Callum Watson and clarinetist Joel Hands-Otte. Works include three new piano trio compositions by Watson presenting a mix of both jazz and classical influences.

Hands-Otte also contributes a profound bass clarinet arrangement of the jazz standard "God Bless the Child" written by Billie Holiday.

The CD concludes with an innovative new arrangement of Vivaldi's G minor flute concerto "La Notte" for flute and string quintet conceived by Melbourne composer Scott A. Aschauer.

"I think as an ensemble we wanted to add something different to the classical sphere. The fusion of jazz and classical sets it apart from a typical chamber music compilation CD. Instead of playing the standard repertoire we love, we really experimented with the aesthetics we enjoy," said Joel who is a feature on the CD.

"The uniqueness of the ensemble sets up the CD really well to be inviting and engaging. All of us walk very different musical paths in life and it's exciting to hear us come together."

CD's can be purchased at callumwatson.com.au or on Itunes. It is available for streaming on Spotify