Review

Tom Dossett
Emprise #1: for Bass Trombone and Piano

Seckington, Tamworth, United Kingdom
Publisher: Warwick Music Limited
Date of Publication: 2022
URL: http://www.warwickmusic.com

Primary Genre: Solo Bass/Contrabass Trombone - with piano

This is a very fast piece, at quarter equal to 160. It is also rather short, coming in with a playing time of just under 3 minutes. Taking all of that into account, I would describe it as quite challenging, especially for the bass trombone, with some fast eighth note triplet passages down through the trigger range into the pedal area. The bulk of the trombone part is fairly straightforward, with many passages in quarters, dotted quarters, and eighths.

The piano part is strongly rhythmic, with patterns set up on the first score page. There are several sections where the piano has interludes while the trombone rests. The overall tone of the work seems to be on the aggressive side, with many passages in “punchy” accented notes, which are sometimes echoed from piano to trombone or vice versa. I would describe this piece as a showy work for both participants, and the use of the “#1” in the title might lead to more pieces in a series.

A well written piece and good for use in a recital by gifted players.