Review

Jürgen Hahn
Best of Dixieland:
trumpet and two trombones

Halberstadt, , Germany
Publisher: Musikverlag Bruno Uetz
Date of Publication: 2010

Primary Genre: Brass Ensemble - 3 brass

The Best of Dixieland is a compilation of new and familiar Dixieland pieces. It is published in two versions: a brass quartet and a brass trio. This review covers both versions. The brass quartet is intended for two trumpets in b-flat and two trombones. The brass trio is intended for trumpet, tenor trombone and bass trombone, although the bass trombone part can be played on tenor as it does not go below F.  

The quartet and trio versions are similar, containing nearly the same pieces. Original works by Jürgen Hahn include New Orleans Time, Maple Leaf Bar, and Blues on the Roof. Arrangements of familiar tunes include Oh When the Saints, Ice Cream (quartet only), Just a Closer Walk, Lady be Good, Summertime, My Bonnie is [Lies] Over the Ocean (quartet only), and Down by the Riverside. All of the arrangements are well constructed. Their melodies and harmonic structures are clear; melodies are often shared between parts. Ranges and rhythms are quite moderate and can be managed well by intermediate-level players. There are no improvisation sections indicated in the score; no need for mutes. It appears these works are intended mostly for fun, although they could easily be programed in a recital.

-Don Babcock
Eastern Michigan University