Review

Henry Purcell
Twelve Sonatas of Three Parts: Volume 2, No.7-12:

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 - 3 trombones

Henry Purcell dedicated his 12 Sonatas of Three Parts to King Charles II of England when the composition was finished in 1683. The trio sonata is a chamber music genre that originated in the Baroque era. Despite the name “trio sonata,” four performers are involved in the work. The basso continuo part supports the bass part, which combine to create rhythmic and harmonic foundation for the high melody parts, originally composed for violins. The bass part is often performed on cello and the continuo part is intended for either organ or harpsichord. Purcell indicates this instrumentation in the preface of his work, which Ralph Sauer provides in his arrangement. Since he keeps Purcell’s original keys, the top voices frequently inhabit the upper register of the trombone. Trombone 1 ranges from B to d2 and stays in tenor clef throughout. Trombone 2 is also written in tenor clef throughout in just as wide a range, stretching from to A to c2. Both parts require advanced trombonists. Trombone 3’s lowest note is D, indicating that a tenor trombonist could perform this part, which will provide a more cohesive sound. However, bass trombone will perhaps provide a sound more similar to the difference between violin and cello. Organ is perhaps the best choice of continuo instrument, if one is used at all. Ralph Sauer adds an appropriate amount of articulation markings to ensure trombonists perform this work with proper style. His use of slurs really helps the performers interpret phrasing indicative of the Baroque period. Dynamic markings are scarce in the original manuscript; Ralph Sauer adds effective markings that guide phrasing and importance of musical line throughout all three parts. This is a wonderful arrangement that requires attention to detail and knowledge of baroque performance practice. Advanced students and professional trombonists can effectively perform this work.

-Matthew J. Visconti
Boston, MA