Review

Paul Dukas
Vocalise-étude (alla gitana):

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


Vancouver, BC, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2015
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

Paul Dukas.
Vocalise-étude (alla gitana) transcribed for trombone and piano by Ralph Sauer. N.p.: Cherry Classics Music, 2015. Score and parts. www.cherryclassics.com
 
Originally for voice and piano and already popularly transcribed for many other solo instruments, Ralph Sauer has brought this beautiful Dukas melody to the tenor trombone. As one might expect of a vocalise, there are many legato, scalar passages interrupted by the occasional ornament or arpeggiation. The accompaniment mostly supports the solo line with richly voiced static harmonies, counter melodies, and melodic imitations.
 
The Vocalise-étude epitomizes a great deal of early 20th century French solo vocal music. Mr. Sauer’s transcription follows the original vocal version note for note and spans a tonal range from B-flat to a1. It requires a trombonist with good flexibility and command of the upper middle register and provides an excellent opportunity to work on trills, ornamentation, and reading music in tenor clef. Score and parts are laid out well and the editing is flawless. This works extremely well and should be a part of every college or professional player’s standard recital repertoire.

-Greg Strohman
Dickinson College