Albums
en plein air
NEW ALBUM RELEASE!
available on all platforms, November 1 2024
Pre-order NOW through Bandcamp.
Wielding my alphorn as a painter wields a brush,
My wind gives life to lush and vibrant soundscapes,
Braiding together the people, places, and memories most dear to me.
'en plein air' is a French expression that refers to the act of painting outdoors, and is an apt metaphor for the noble art of Alphorn blowing. This album includes a collection of thirteen original impressionist pieces for Alphorn, each one inspired by places, people, and memories from my life and travels.
Throughout the production of this album, I aspired to expand and refine the harmonic, expressive, and technical palettes of the modern Alphorn. I hope you enjoy listening to this music as much as I enjoyed creating it! - Jim Hopson, May 2024
Side One: Chill
Tracks 1-8 are atmospheric pieces for Alphorn ensemble, woven together with sounds from the natural world: running rivers, billowing breezes, and singing birds.
Side Two: Groove
Tracks 9-13 take the Alphorn into uncharted territory! Stunningly adventurous horn playing over Reggae, Salsa, Afro-Cuban, Funk, and Neo-Soul grooves... premium ear-candy!
Watch this space for video teasers!
Generations
New from Rocky Mountain Alphorns is a landmark father/son Alphorn album. ‘Generations’ honours the rich history of the instrument, while looking toward its bright future. This is a must-listen project for both Alphorn aficionados and music lovers in general!
Digital Downloads: Bandcamp
CDs: Phonos Music
Original sheet music from the album is also available:
West Coast Nights
West Coast Nights (2015) is the debut album from Vancouver, BC Jazz duo Flock & Hopson. Featuring beautiful melodies and smooth grooves, this is an instrumental jazz album produced with a pop aesthetic. Easy listening with a distinctly West Coast flavour!
Download/Streaming: Bandcamp
CDs: Phonos Music
Accolades for ‘West Coast Nights’
‘Thank you for the hard work and honest emotion you put into your music. The effort matters, and is appreciated. WEST COAST NIGHTS is a flawless gem, and you are a distinguished member of the brotherhood of breath. I look forward to your next. To your next dozen. You put it down, I’ll pick it up.’
- Spider Robinson, Hugo Award-winning author
‘Congrats on an absolutely wonderful set.....never boring... really nice and vocal solos - and generous and clear balances...’
-Jeremy Berkman, principal trombone, Vancouver Opera Orchestra