Review


David Lawrence Ritt
Melodious Duets for Alto and Tenor Trombone: to Harmonize the Etudes of Joannes Rochut Volume 1
Alto and tenor trombone

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2019
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score

Primary Genre: Study Material - etude
Secondary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 2 trombones

These duets are composed to correspond to Joannes Rochut's arrangements of Marco Bordogni's Vocalises, titled Melodious Etudes. They are offered in three volumes, sold separately: Book 1, Volume 1 (Etudes 1-30); Book 1, Volume 2 (Etudes 31-60); Book 1 complete (Etudes 1-60). The following review applies to all three volumes.

There are several duet accompaniments available for the Bordogni/Rochut Melodious Etudes. All provide great pedagogical value in helping students achieve better intonation, rhythm and musical development. However, Ritt’s version is distinctive in that first, he has arranged them as duets for alto and tenor trombone. Second, and more importantly, he has composed a duet part that is more than supportive to the original melody. Indeed, the tenor part is an equal partner, responding and interacting with the original melody in the alto part, and filling in the gaps when the main melody is sustaining or resting. The tenor part is just as challenging and technically demanding as the alto part. It explores the upper register as well, e² on one occasion, and a few times crosses voices with the alto part. The original etudes have all been transposed up a fourth to accommodate the alto trombone, but are otherwise the same as the original Rochut arrangements. Best of all, Ritt has created beautiful counterparts that stay true to Bel Canto melodic style and transforms them from pedagogical duets into music that could be used for performances and recitals. Beyond the development of high register, musicianship, intonation, and rhythm, these duets make great developmental etudes for alto trombone. They are certainly more difficult than most of the current alto solo and orchestral literature and should greatly extend the abilities of students and professionals. This is a great new addition to the resources designed to enhance the Bordogni/Rochut vocalises and also to duet literature in general. A version in the original key for two tenors or tenor/bass would be most welcome in the future! Grade 4-6.

Reviewer: Timothy Howe
Review Published June 19, 2023