Review

Anonymous
10 Favorite Melodies for 3 Trombones:

Arranged by David Uber


Delevan, NY, United States
Publisher: Kendor Music
Date of Publication: 2005
URL: http://www.kendormusic.com

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 3 trombones

This collection consists of familiar melodies arranged for trombone trio including Amazing Grace, Shall We Gather at the River, and Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen. The stated level of Grade 2-3 is fairly accurate, with most of the movements closer to the lower grade. Rhythms are primarily quarter notes and half notes; a few of the movements feature slower eighth note passages although one features a dotted-eighth/sixteenth note pattern. Accidentals are kept to a minimum. One of the movements is in 6/8 meter, another in march tempo alla breve, and the collection features a variety of key signatures from D-flat major to G major. Most of the movements begin with a brief introduction, which sets the rhythm and tonality for the piece. Range extends from first trombone g1 down to F for the third part. 
Its simple rhythms and harmonies, familiar melodies and limited range make this an ideal set for junior-high level trombone trio. They are also quite suitable for basic sight-reading practice with more advanced students, for incorporating into sectional work or applied lessons, for blending and ensemble practice at the high school level. Their simplicity does not lend them to performance beyond the junior-high level.

-James Adams
Valley City State University