Review

Various
Classical Trombones: famous classical works arranged for three trombones, baritones or euphoniums

, Germany
Publisher: Uetz Music Publishers
Date of Publication: 2013

Score and parts

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

These three sets of trio arrangements represent collections of famous classical works and traditional German and Russian songs. The Classical Trombones set is the highlight; a greatest hits compilation of sorts featuring arrangements of Ravel’s Bolero, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor, Beethoven’s Symphony No.5 and many others. All parts are given in bass clef. Range is considerable, up to d2 in one section (with optional 8vb) in the first trombone part and down to GG in the third trombone part. A basic knowledge of jazz and improvisation is necessary. Chord changes are given for improvised solos and a number of the German and Russian song collections contain swing sections. The parts employ a plethora of special effects including Harmon (wah-wah) mute, plunger, straight mute, tambourine, glissandi, clapping hands and snapping fingers. All and all, these are fun trios to play, even if they sound somewhat “over-the-top” at times. There is certainly no shortage of variety here. You will enjoy playing the marches “Gruβ an Kiel” and “Zum Städtel hinaus” from the German Trombones collection. The arrangement of Robert Schumann’s “Träumerie” is a straightforward study in legato playing, its beautiful melody woven seamlessly into each part. It is oddly satisfying to play “Schicksalssinfonie,” a fun jaunt based on the first movement of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, because trombones are tacet in the full orchestra version!

-Tom Pylinski
Malone University