Review

Various
Low Brass Trio Album:

Arranged by Micha Davis


Kfar Sava, , Israel
Publisher: Israel Brass Woodwind Publications
Date of Publication: 2007

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 3 trombones
Secondary Genre: Brass Ensemble - 3 brass

This collection of eight compositions is arranged for either two tenors and one bass trombone or two euphoniums and one tuba. Composers from various stylistic periods are represented: Rossi, Speer, Bach, Handel, Mozart and Mendelssohn. Musical selections have been wisely chosen and the arrangements work well with the ensemble. Each individual part is melodically, rhythmically, and technically interesting, which contributes to a satisfying experience for performer and listener alike. Lengths of the arrangements vary between one to three minutes and the variety of moderate technical and musical challenges are appropriate for low brass players at or above a high school performance level. Pitch range in the trombone 1 part ascends to b-flat1 and tenor clef is utilized in two of the arrangements. However, the tessitura of this part generally remains between e and f1. The trombone 2 part also utilizes tenor clef in one arrangement with f1 as its highest pitch. A trombone with an f-attachment or euphonium with 4th-valve is required to perform the trombone 3 part as its pitches routinely descend into the valve register GG-c1. However the use of a bass trombone or tuba is not necessary; tessitura for most arrangements remains between C and f. These trios are an enjoyable addition to the repertoire.

-Kevin Chiarizzio
Liberty University