Considered to be one of the best trumpeters of his generation, Paul Merkelo is reputed for his "unusual lyrical gifts" (Gramophone). with the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal, he presents three rarely recorded masterpieces for trumpet and orchestra. One work is by the rigorous Alfred Désenclos, a favorite of the academy. Henri Tomasi by contrast, was ever the pragmatist, eschewing systems and methods in favor of a popular aesthetic. Meanwhile André Jolivet belonged to a movement that valued the spiritual aspect of music. The works presented here offer a nuanced perspective on French musical thought and the growing importance of the solo trumpet in 20th century music. On this recording, Merkelo offers a performance that will cement his reputation as one of the better trumpeters today.