Review

Richard Roblee
Something New:
trumpet, trombone and bass trombone

Halberstadt, , Germany
Publisher: Musikverlag Bruno Uetz
Date of Publication: 2009

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Brass Ensemble - 3 brass

Something New is a suite of four short movements in jazz style for brass trio. Ranges are not difficult, though the melodic lines, especially in the first movement, demand speed and flexibility from the performers. Movement one, entitled “Something New,” is a fast swing tune with slightly boppish melodic lines. An opening homorhythmic section alternates with a tuneful, swinging chorus that features a walking bass line in Basie style. The second movement, “Heavy Lifting,” is a medium bluesy swing with a hat tip to the familiar standard Blue Monk. “Sad Song” is a pretty ballad featuring trombone and trumpet in a nice duet, and the last movement, “Finally Got it Right,” is a bright, gospel swing. The publisher includes chord changes, so these pieces are intended to be treated with some flexibility. Sections can be repeated ad lib and are designed to be opened up for improvisation; a rhythm section could be added without much difficulty. All movements can be played as stand-alone pieces. This is good, light chamber material for an undergraduate college recital or just a light touch to a professional program.

-Tim Howe
University of Missouri