Review

Jörg Vollerthun
Little Brown Jug:

Arranged by Joseph Winner


Mainz, , Germany
Publisher: Advance Music
Date of Publication: 2011

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones

Arranged for the group German Trombone Vibration, this is a short, straightforward arrangement of a familiar tune that is suitable for high school and college level groups or as a stock arrangement for a professional quartet. It builds from a basic bass line and simple statement of the tune to a full shout chorus. The arranger incorporates nice touches by adding plunger mute to the accompaniment parts, glissandi, and effective rhythmic alterations of the tune. In addition there are several open sections with chord changes for improvisation in the second and third trombone parts. The first trombone part is not too difficult but is high enough to demand stamina from younger players. The lower parts are relatively easy and the fourth part could be played on tenor if needed. This is a fun crowd pleaser for a variety of skill levels. 

-Tim Howe
University of Missouri