Review

Johann Sebastian Bach
Prelude in E-flat Major (Saint Anne):

Arranged by Ralph Sauer

eight trombones

Vancouver, BC, , Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2015
URL: http://www.CherryClassics.com

score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 8 trombones

The Prelude and Fugue in E-flat for organ, BWV552, from Clavier-Übung III (1739), are known in the English-speaking world as ‘St. Anne’ because of some similarity of the fugue subject to the hymn tune by William Croft, first published in 1708 as a setting for Psalm 42. This skilful transcription preserves all its essential elements, and gives each player an interesting part. The ‘signature’ trochaic, dotted rhythm appears in each part in the first 16 measures. The highest passages are given in octave transposition, but the first part is still quite challenging. Lower parts are less demanding. Each part covers an approximate two octave range; all have their fair share of 16th notes and adequate measures of rest. The upper four parts are given in tenor clef, the lower parts in bass.

This transcription is well suited to a student ensemble of mixed experience, both a stimulating and challenging work for study and an enjoyable piece for performance. First part range is e-flat-e-flat2; fifth is A-flat-f1. Bass 2 covers GG-g.