Review

Jack Cooper
Sonata for Trombone:

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Publisher: Brassworks 4 Publishing
Date of Publication: 2007
URL: http://www.brassworks4.com

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

The versatile and prolific composer Jack Cooper, whose work ranges from choral pieces to the studio orchestra, adds this Sonata to his growing library of compositions for brass instruments. The three movement Sonata uses jazz, Latin, and African dance styles that Cooper employs in some of his other brass works. The range requires a tenor trombone with F-attachment. Cooper’s markings are clear and print quality excellent. Abundant swing rhythms, jazz turns and falls pervade. There are sections in the first and third movements that can be improvised, ample moments that allow the soloist to express individual style.

The first movement is titled Mambo. This aggressive Latin movement ranges from F to b-flat1. The second movement, titled Solo, is for unaccompanied trombone. This jazzy movement develops a single motive and ranges from D to b1. A free cadenza is left open to the creativity of the soloist. Naningo in 12/8 meter is the third movement that employs an afro Latin groove. Although nothing is specifically notated in the score, exploring the use of percussion and improvisation will certainly enhance the sense of style in the first and third movements.

It is clear that Cooper welcomes the performer to explore styles, expression, and even the use of percussion in his Sonata. A pianist with the appropriate amount of experience in jazz and Latin styles is a requirement. The vast array of styles makes this piece challenging and only appropriate for advanced trombonists.

-Andrew Converse
Pikes Peak College