Review

Bart Van Kerchove
The Apache Kid:

Machelen, , Belgium
Publisher: Yellow Music Editions
Date of Publication: 2012
URL: http://www.yellowmusiceditions.be

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

Composer Bart Van Kerchove has produced varied output having written music for piano, voice, orchestra, film and more. His works are available for purchase and are published through his own company, Yellow Music Editions.
 
The Apache Kid is a descriptive work of the infamous American wild-west outlaw. Van Kerchove paints the setting behind the piece as follows: “The Far West, 1889. The Apache Kid, who once served in the American army, joins the Apaches, who are still in rebellion, and fights for the freedom of his people. He is one of the most wanted ‘criminals,’ but disappears into thin air for good.”
 
The work is cast in three distinct, but continuous sections. It begins in g minor with heavy accents, and with eight and sixteenth-note figures, reminiscent of native-American drumming. The middle section is contrasting with a smooth, sonorous texture. The last section returns in a strong and rhythmic nature. The entire work is mostly in common meter, with a range from G to f-sharp1 and calls for a metal straight mute. It is fun to play, enjoyable for performer and audience, and well suited for a younger player in competition.

-Donald Babcock
Eastern Michigan University