Review

Alexander Scriabin
Two Etudes, Op. 8:

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


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

Piano score and solo part

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

Transcription of Etudes No.’s 8 and 9 from the original twelve of Scriabin’s Op. 9 Etudes for Piano, written early in Scriabin’s career in 1894. 

The arranger has transposed both etudes up a half step from the original, set the upper melodic line in the trombone part, and left the remaining piano part intact from the original. The music in Etude No. 8 is beautifully expressive and lyrical with the unusual harmonic twists and voicing that we often associate with Scriabin.  The melodic material undergoes some rhythmic variation and transformation interrupted by a brief interlude. Range e to b1, Grade 4.

Etude No. 9 is more difficult for both the trombonist and pianist. It is very dramatic with trumpet call figures in the trombone and simultaneous duple and triple subdivisions that create complex cross rhythms. In a way the separation of these cross rhythms between the trombone and piano makes them a little easier to play than the piano original. This is truly an equal partnership between the trombone and piano and will need a great pianist to be effective. No. 9 is in ABA form with a lyrical 12/8 contrasting section separating the dramatic outer sections. This work is difficult, but if well prepared could be very powerful in this version.  Grade 5. Range A to c-sharp2.

Both etudes could be performed together or separately and would add a unique late romantic twist to a recital.