Review

Traditional
Wassail Song:

Arranged by Ralph Vaughan Williams/Ron Babcock


Vancouver, BC, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2014
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones

Adapting choral works for trombone groups can be a surprisingly hairy task as one must take into consideration range, original chord voicings and endurance. However, Ron Babcock, Associate Professor of Music at Portland State University, has done a remarkable job with his adaptation. This waltz-style carol cheerfully exudes the character of the title, which translates to “Good health!” Although traditionally sung at Christmastime, the work’s original text enthusiastically anticipates the coming new year. Preparation time of the work should be low for any collegiate ensemble, considering the simplicity of rhythms and keys. The fugal nature of the work provides a suitable challenge. Endurance may be an issue for younger players as there isn’t much rest in the parts. The range of each part is fitting to its place in the quartet with a combined range of C to c2. The top two parts are written entirely in tenor clef. Since “Good health!” is always a welcome message, directors should not hesitate to program this work any time of the year.

-Cory Mixdorf
University of Arkansas