Review

Alexander Scriabin
Two Etudes, Op. 8: for Tuba (Bass trombone) and piano

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


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

Primary Genre: Solo Bass/Contrabass Trombone - with piano

With his arrangement of “Two Etudes” by Alexander Scriabin, Ralph Sauer continues to add to his extensive collection of publications through Cherry Classics Music. Available for all low brass instruments both as a hard copy or digital download, this arrangement is one of many well-known and often virtuosic works for piano that have been adapted to showcase a solo instrument with piano accompaniment. Mr. Sauer has done the same to pieces by Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Liszt, Schumann, and many others, all to great effect.

Both of these etudes were selected from Twelve Études, op. 8. The first (no. 8, transposed from A-flat major to C major), is relatively slow and almost exclusively performed in a legato style. At the beginning, the melody is stated in eighth notes, followed by a restatement in eighth note triplets and a closing brief sixteenth note passage. While the rhythm and melodic range (G to d-flat1) are not difficult, effectively coordinating the use of tempo rubato with an accompanist could present a challenge. By contrast, the second etude (no. 9, transposed from G-sharp minor to C minor) is faster, highly dramatic, and considerably diverse both in dynamics and articulations. The melodic range is once again relatively conservative (C to d1) but this particular etude will require a highly skilled accompanist.

All things considered, this pair of etudes would make a nice addition to a student or faculty recital program. Since Alexander Scriabin never composed for low brass instruments in a solo setting, these etudes could serve as an introduction to his music. Finally, it is recommended that students study multiple recorded versions of the original etudes for piano as they prepare to perform the work.