Review

Gabriel Fauré
Two Pieces:

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


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

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

These well-known pieces are transcriptions for the trombonist who delights in shaping beautiful, melodic lines. The first setting is the Berceuse, marked Allegretto moderato in 6/8 meter. Its languid four-measure phrases provide ample opportunity to explore one’s lyrical side. This piece is pitched in C major and its tessitura remains primarily in the middle and low registers of the instrument. Beware, however; the piece does end on a soft and sustained c2. The last half of the work may be performed with mute. 

The second piece is the gorgeous and oft transcribed Sicilienne. Sauer sets this transcription in f minor; it is the more difficult of the two. It encompasses a range of D-flat to a-flat1 and requires dynamic sensitivity and embouchure flexibility. It especially demands fluid transitions from the f-attachment register into the middle-upper register. Sauer again suggests the option of using a mute on the final return of the main theme.

These settings will prove quite useful additions to our repertoire. They can serve as attractive, lyrical additions to a recital program—additions that would also provide a needed break for one’s chops. They can also be used effectively in studio teaching, serving as a pleasing substitute for the common regimen of Bordogni and helping to develop the more nuanced lyricism we desire for our students.

-Paul Overly
Bob Jones University