On this page there are five brief examples of Mr. Burke performing without accompaniment. Some of the sound files included here may take a few moments to load. The sound files are definately playable with Windows Media Player or Quick Time Player.
This excerpt is the opening of the cadenza from Del Staigers' The Carnival of Venice. While it is only a brief excerpt and not the complete cadenza, it serves as an excellent demonstration of Mr. Burke's artistry and incredible ability.
Walter Rogers was one of Mr. Burke's favorite composers. On this excerpt - the theme from Rogers' The Harp of Tara, the listener is treated to a wonderful example of Mr. Burke's unique sound, use of ornaments and legato tonguing.
Mr. Burke had a passion for music with fast tempos, and the faster - the better. This excerpt from The Festival at Bagdad is just a brief glimpse into the art of triple tonguing as demonstrated by the master himself.
Scheherazade was one of Mr. Burke's favorite compositions. Here he demonstrates (from memory) an excerpt from the concert band version.
On this clip you will hear Mr. Burke demonstrating the art of double tonguing, beginning with a single tongue and then morphing into a rapid double tongue. The transition is so smooth and clean that the listener will not be able to determine when the single tongue ceased and when the double tongue began.