Review

Anotonio Soler
The Emperor’s Fanfare for Trombone Quartet:

Arranged by Mark Prater


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Publisher: Wehr's Music House
Date of Publication: 2011
URL: http://www.wehrs-music-house.com

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones

This transcription of a keyboard work by Antonio Soler (1729-1783) is fairly stagnant, as several sections receive multiple hearings over the course of just three minutes. Fortunately, Prater’s careful use of dynamics enhances the magisterial quality of the proceedings, and the inclusion of several trills lends some late Baroque/early Classical authenticity. Range extends up to b-flat1 and the first two trombone parts are given in tenor clef. The fourth part, which goes down to C, is designated as tuba in the score and on the part, which is in conflict with the title of the work. Fanfare is a bit difficult for a young group but neither is it particularly challenging for an advanced ensemble. The most effective use of this piece might be in a setting that uses multiple players on a part. 

-Joel Elias
California State University, Fresno; CSU Sacramento