Review

Richard Wagner
Parsifal Vorspiel :

Arranged by Randall Malmstrom

Brass ensemble and timpani

Vancouver, BC, , Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2017
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts. Grade 4-5.

Primary Genre: Brass Ensemble - 6+ brass (choir)

This is an effective arrangement of an orchestra classic scored for four trumpets, four horns, 4 trombones, euphonium, tuba and timpani. This arrangement is a slightly abbreviated version of the original, cutting to the end of the piece at the conclusion of the big brass choral in the middle of the prelude and skipping the reprise of the opening material. In general the arranger keeps the integrity of the original brass parts and key areas, removing only a few string arpeggios from the original score. Parsifal Vorspiel is an excellent arrangement for college or professional brass groups, playable by most college ensembles. It does require a first trumpet player with a secure upper register in soft dynamics and a tubist with a sound pedal range.