Tom Ball Quartet

When kids choose what instrument they'd like to play, few of them pick the euphonium, which looks like an undersized tuba and is generally relegated to a supporting role in the rare jazz ensembles that include it. Ball attempts to prove that such pigeonholing is unjustified by repeatedly putting the...

By Michael Roberts

July 7, 2005

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When kids choose what instrument they'd like to play, few of them pick the euphonium, which looks like an undersized tuba and is generally relegated to a supporting role in the rare jazz ensembles that include it. Ball attempts to prove that such pigeonholing is unjustified by repeatedly putting the euphonium in the spotlight, and this modest recording proves his point.

Tonally, the euphonium is similar to a trombone, which Ball handles in several Denver-area groups. No wonder his playing on the likes of "Peter Rabbit" feels so warm and familiar. The performances -- by Ball, pianist Vlad Girschevich, bassist Eric Thorin and drummer Ben Makinen -- aren't particularly adventurous; they generally settle for post-bop safety. Nevertheless, offerings such as "Bluz 4 T Man," boosted by a trickier-than-usual arrangement, exude an effortless charm.

Elementary schoolers may not clamor for euphoniums because of Ball's undertaking. Still, Fishleather Jacket wears well.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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