Review

Ian McDougall
Remember When:
solo trombone, three trombones, and tuba

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

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with brass
Secondary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 5 trombones

Remember When, written by Canadian trombonist and composer Ian McDougall, is a solo feature accompanied by orchestral low brass section. Commissioned by the Vancouver Opera Low Brass section with the help of the British Columbia Arts Council, this single movement piece is in ABA form. The first section is a jazz ballad, which begins with a short introduction marked Dolce. The accompaniment consists of long, held chords providing a rich harmonic background. This leads into the B section that features a twelve-measure improvised solo with a Latin feel; both chord changes and a written solo are provided. The piece concludes with return to the A section ballad, this time in a new key. The piece is not overly difficult and does not present any range or performance issues. The solo part can also be played by either horn or flugelhorn; parts are included.
Score and parts are easy to read, given in bass clef and rehearsal markings are included throughout. Ranges: solo trombone, d–a1; trombone 1, e–a1; trombone 2, c–e1; trombone 3, F–c1; tuba FF–a-flat. This piece works well as a recital closer.

-Patrick Lawrence
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point