Review

Gregorio Allegri
Misere:

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


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

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 5 trombones

Estimated to have been composed during the 1630’s for two choirs, notable trombonist Ralph Sauer has orchestrated this for trombone ensemble. To be expected, all parts are carefully written to appropriately fit each tessitura. The top three voices are written in tenor clef, and the first part is scored up to d2. Clear phrase markings and breath marks are given.
 
The original score and performance practice indicate two choirs, one of four voices and the other of five, demonstrating a quality example of Renaissance polyphony. While one choir intones the chant, the other responds with an elaborated version. This can be repeated four times as was the original intention. At some point, the church declared that this music could not be transcribed under penalty of excommunication, and there is ample evidence to support that the written versions are not quite exactly what was originally composed. Furthermore, the ornamentation practice was also closely guarded by the church and added to the power and mystery of the Sistine Chapel performances.
 
Numerous quality vocal recordings exist, including a recent release utilizing the original 1661 codex. Primarily due to range, it is suggested that a college trombone ensemble would be able to effectively perform this. Exposing students to the richness of Renaissance choral polyphony is a terrific reason to program this. An educated audience will most certainly enjoy the represented style.

-David Stern
Houston, TX