Review

John Frith
Momentum: for Solo Bass Trombone and Trombone Ensemble
Trombone choir: Trombone ensemble: Trombone octet: solo bass trombone and trombone ensemble 5 tenor, two bass, solo bass trombone

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2022
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts.

Primary Genre: Solo Bass/Contrabass Trombone - with brass
Secondary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 8 trombones

Prolific British composer John Frith continues to add to his growing catalogue of works with Momentum for bass trombone soloist and seven-part trombone ensemble. Composed for Nathaniel Brickens and his students at the University of Texas, Austin, the work is approximately 12 minutes in length and is cast in three contrasting movements. As the title suggests, syncopated patterns propel the music forward, particularly in the two outer movements. The accompanying ensemble is often divided into two parts, alternating back and forth while repeating driving ostinato patterns behind the soloist. In addition, mutes are employed extensively in the first movement to add timbral variety to the repeated figures. The solo part is also highly syncopated, further adding to the sense of urgency that permeates movements 1 and 3. By contrast, the ensemble is less rhythmically active in the second movement; that responsibility is given to the soloist while the accompaniment creates mood via slow harmonic and dynamic motion.

The solo part remains within an appropriate range throughout, FF to a¹, but requires a substantial amount of agility, particularly with articulation and slide technique, and especially at the end of the work. The featured soloist needs a healthy amount of endurance, an understanding of the dynamic levels called for in the ensemble parts and the need for balance.

With Momentum, John Frith deliveres an exciting work with the potential to showcase both a talented bass trombonist and a cohesive ensemble. For those familiar with the composer’s other works for bass trombone, particularly the Sonata and Concertino, the level of skill required to perform the piece effectively will not be a surprise. Looking for a new opportunity to feature a talented bass trombonist in your ensemble? Momentum is well worth checking out.