Review

Antonin Dvořák
Slavonic Dance Op.72 No.7:

Arranged by M. LaChance

Trombone and piano

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

Score and solo part.

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

The Op.72 set of Dances was composed for piano four hands in 1886. No.7 is a Kolo, which is in 2/4 meter and danced in a circle holding hands. This transcription is given in its original key of C major, central section in C minor. It is marked Allegro vivace, quarter = 144. The trombone part is given in tenor clef. There are many 16th and 32nd notes and a variety of articulations calling for  secure technique. Overall range is c-c².

The piano part is interesting with varied patterns throughout, including syncopated 16ths in the opening section and two against three in the second section. There are production issues in the score - notes, slurs and pedal markings overlapping text below the bass line on three out of ten pages, solidified beams on 32nd notes and slurs overlapping notes, etc. Production of trombone part is excellent.

With the technical challenges met, this will be an enjoyable piece for both players. Marc LaChance is currently Associate Director of Bands and Low Brass Instructor at Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, NM.