Review

Johannes Brahms
Five Songs Op.41:

Arranged by Karl Hinterbichler

Trombone Quartet: four trombones: 3 tenor, 1 bass trombone

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2020
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts.

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones

Five Songs, based on poetry by Karl Lemcke, was published in 1867. Though Brahms wrote skillfully for low voices throughout his life, these songs represent his total output for a cappella men’s chorus. While its serious and dark songs contrast with light and exuberant ones, all share an overt militaristic tone that foreshadows the dangerous course of German nationalism.

While the German texts may sound dated to modern ears, a trombone quartet version will not. As a convenience and a compliment to Brahms’s vocal writing, Hinterbichler’s arrangement preserves the original voice leading. This makes the collection a good introduction to the trombone’s singing quality for young players, while advanced players will enjoy performing music with clear connections to singing.

Hinterbichler’s version uses the same key signatures as the original. The familiar territory of B-flat major, E-flat major, and C minor will result in easy sight reading and improved intonation, leaving more time to rehearse ensemble phrasing and appropriate rubato. Brahms writes five verses in songs 1 and 4, but Hinterbichler’s arrangement wisely limits these songs to two verses each.

This 14-minute collection will enhance a program of vocal-inspired works or provide a contrast to abstract instrumental music. Parts and score use modern engraving with clear, legible notation. The collection is available for purchase as a PDF download, mailed physical copy, or both. Two parts appear in tenor clef, two are in bass clef, and none require mutes. Its length, range, ample use of rubato, and challenging phrasing make it suitable for advanced players.