Review

Johann Sebastian Bach
Toccata in E minor (from Partita No.6, BWV 830) :

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2010
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones

With this arrangement of the Toccata in E minor, Sauer continues a long tradition of transcribing Bach’s keyboard works for brass. He does so deftly, interweaving the ornate keyboard lines within the four trombone parts with a keen sense of what is possible. The result is a challenging yet reasonable transcription.

The Toccata begins with florid, improvisatory lines that alternate rapidly between the first and second parts initially and then eventually between the third and fourth parts. Keyboard performers often interpret a sizable amount of rhythmic flexibility into this opening section, a flexibility that will be challenging to approximate with a trombone choir. This opening unit is over fifty measures in length and requires sensitive shaping to keep from obscuring the musical progress.

The central section of the Toccata is an extensive fugue whose subject is straightforward, but its countersubject is significantly more elaborate. Sauer wisely weaves the countersubject and the episodic material into all four parts in full measure and half-measure increments. Following the fugue the opening material returns in full bloom. Like the opening, the length and repetitiveness of the return will require dynamic patience to keep proper musical pacing. Seemingly in the midst of an extensive development of the toccata theme, the end occurs abruptly with resounding majestic chords.

Melodic interest is spread through all four parts. Parts one and two are written in tenor clef and are similar in difficulty apart from the higher tessitura of the first part, up to c2. The third part is simpler, residing primarily within the staff. The bass trombone part is not excessively low but has several low BB naturals necessitating double valves. This transcription of Toccata in E minor is monumental—not for a casual group of players. Successful performance will take strong players from top to bottom, players with good technique but an even better musical awareness. However, the magnificent sound of a trombone choir performing this timeless masterpiece will more than repay the effort.

-Paul Overly
Bob Jones University