Review

Johann Sebastian Bach
Chorale Prelude, BWV 659: for Trombone Choir

Arranged by Kevin R. Dombrowski

6 tenors (4 in tenor clef), 2 basses

Vancouver, BC, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2021
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 8 trombones

Chorale Prelude, BWV 659 from “Nun komm der Heiden Heiland is part of the Eighteen Great Chorale Preludes which Bach prepared at the last decade of his life. This arrangement for trombone choir is faithful to the registration and voicing of the original with some tweaks by the arranger to make it less taxing on the performers. The arranger divides the ensemble into two four-part choirs which then alternate performing each phrase and give the first part in choir periods of rest. The first part in each choir performs a very melismatic line throughout, resting between f and c1, and will require two excellent performers who are rhythmically secure. The second and third parts in both choirs play in imitation providing another layer of melodic interest through the whole piece. The bass trombone in each choir provides the walking bass line that grounds the work. The bass lines frequently walk down to pedal Ab and G and really need to be performed on bass trombone to get the necessary tone and color. Only on the last phrase do both choirs come together for full sound at the finish. This arrangement requires secure ensemble rhythm and subdivision, especially at the end when parts are doubled. An excellent and sensitive arrangement of one of Bach’s mature works. Grade 4-5