Review

Giacomo Puccini
Crisantemi : for six trombones

Arranged by Robert P. Holland


Chicago, IL, United States
Publisher: Briar Music Press
Date of Publication: 2015

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 6 trombones

Originally scored for string quartet, but often performed by string ensemble, Crisantemi was composed in a single night in 1890 as a response to the death of the Duke of Savoy. The six-part orchestration allows for double stops to be covered. The original c-sharp minor key is retained and the chromatic harmonies require infrequently used accidentals. A careful study of the string quartet score will show how the arranger interpreted articulation markings. Retaining the delicate texture of the string quartet is the biggest challenge. Alternating 16th notes in the upper end of the trombone register, exposed moments with sustained soft dynamics, and rhythmic integrity of parts provide particular difficulty. There are many tempo changes and nuances that may require a conductor depending upon the size of the ensemble. The top three parts are written in tenor clef and the highest note in the first part is c-sharp2. There is substantial musical merit, but it will require much rehearsal for effective performance; it is approachable by a good college ensemble.

-David Stern
Houston, TX