Review

Joseph L. LaRosa and Joseph Hasper
Concertino for Trombone and Piano:

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Publisher: Wehr's Music House
Date of Publication: 2010

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano
Secondary Genre: Elementary Material - solo

This brief three-movement piece is well-suited for younger players. Range, from b-flat to g1, is quite moderate but does include more frequent high g1’s in the first movement. All three movements are placed in minor keys with relatively quick tempi. The writing is simple but tuneful with enough thematic repetition that, at times, I wanted more variety.  Editing is light especially with regard to articulation. The piano part is easy and should be within the reach of a good high school level player. The piece is dedicated to and possibly composed for J.R. LaRosa who, according to the biography, is the composer’s son. Concertino is a short, pragmatic offering that can serve as a solo festival piece within the reach of most second to fourth year trombonists.

-Brad Edwards
University of South Carolina