Review

Georg Philipp Telemann
Twelve Fantasias:

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2011
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Primary Genre: Solo Alto Trombone - unaccompanied

Ralph Sauer has transcribed and edited these new editions of the Telemann unaccompanied Twelve Fantasias for alto, tenor and bass trombone using all of Telemann's original tempos, slurs and dynamics. Each edition sets the Twelve Fantasias in keys appropriate for the intended instrument. Worthy study pieces, each fantasia is each a unique, petit Baroque suite. Together they are a major contribution to the repertoire of this time period. Originally written for transverse flute, trombonists will find breathing more inherent within the phrase structure than say a Bach cello suite. Also, there are no double-stops to tackle, as in other similar works written for strings.

Many of us are familiar with the single edition Alan Raph created of these works. Sauer's versions for alto and tenor trombone differ in that the pitch is higher, placing the music in a range more suitable for ornamentation; Sauer suggests excellent places to add ornamentation.  Phrasing and dynamic markings are present throughout, based upon Telemann’s original indications. These are exciting new editions to add to our collection of Baroque music.

-Donald Babcock
Eastern Michigan University