Review

Antonio Lotti
Crucifixus:

Arranged by Philip Brink


Vancouver, BC, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2013
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 8 trombones

Crucifixus, by Italian Baroque composer Antonio Lotti, was originally written as a motet for 8 voices as part of his Credo in F. This renowned eight-part “Crucifixus” is one in a series of settings of this text that Lotti composed. Crucifixus is written in a quasi-recitative Baroque style but also boasts polyphonic passages reminiscent of the older Renaissance tradition. The music is both melancholy and beautiful, filled with polyphonic imitation and suspensions. Crucifixus opens with a pyramid-like texture, with one voice entering individually in each of the first eight measures. Philip Brink’s arrangement of Crucifixus for eight trombones is transposed from the original key of c minor, down a fifth to the key of f minor. The key of f minor translates well for trombones and allows Brink to transcribe each voice part exactly and without compromise to the original voice leading. Brink includes dynamic markings, phrase markings, and tempo markings in his arrangement. The top four parts are written in tenor clef, with the top part reaching c2. The bottom two parts are written for bass trombone with the bottom part descending to FF in the final F Major cadence. Moving lines are passed throughout all parts, making each voice equally important and enjoyable to play. Brink’s arrangement is accessible to intermediate through advanced trombonists and is a great way to introduce undergraduate students to the sacred motet.

-Russell Ballenger
University of Mary