Review

Béla Bartók
Allegro Barbaro:

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


Vancouver, BC, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2012
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

Composed in 1911, Allegro Barbaro is one of Béla Bartók’s most famous solo piano works. Typical of Bartók’s compositional style, Hungarian and Romanian folk elements are significant throughout the short work. This highly successful arrangement for trombone and piano by Ralph Sauer captures the dance-like character and style of the original composition.
 
The solo part requires straight mute throughout, which provides a distinctive tonal color and character to the work. Utilizing tenor clef almost exclusively, range extends from F to c2.  Specific articulation markings are found throughout the arrangement to help guide the soloist in acclimating to the style. Alternate positions are required but not specifically notated to play glissandi used throughout the piece. The work is technically straightforward but does include several difficult measures towards the end. In the original version for solo piano, these measures are played slower and at the performer’s leisure. This approach will make these passages much more accessible to most trombonists. The piano accompaniment compliments the trombone solo well and should be easily playable by most pianists. While several quick tempo changes will require rehearsal, the two parts come together quickly. Allegro Barbaro is fun to play and will be a great addition to any professional or student trombone recital.

-Ben McIlwain
The University of Southern Mississippi