Sonata No.1 Op.120:
Arranged by Ralph Sauer
Trombone and piano
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2022
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com
Score and parts.
Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano
This is a straight transcription of the Brahms Clarinet Sonata in F minor, Op.120, No.1. There have been no apparent changes beyond transposition down an octave from the original. This is the last chamber music Brahms composed and it is obviously a beautiful, mature work by a great composer, which makes it worthy of study and transcription. It is also a substantial work, 24 minutes, that demands great technical prowess, a strong upper register and mighty endurance. In addition, it is truly a sonata for clarinet and piano, requiring a strong pianist to be successful. The first movement is the most difficult featuring difficult arpeggiations. The remaining movements are not as technical and can be performed by a strong undergraduate or graduate level player. It translates well to the trombone and, like the Schumann Fantasies, selected movements can be performed in recital and be quite effective. Range DD-d2. Grade 5-6.
Review Published June 24, 2023