Although a full length and difficult piece, the bass trombone concerto is not beyond the scope of players of 1st and championship section bands. The band parts are playable by most bands, making the work also suitable for use with a guest soloist. It is also suitable for euphonium players.
The concerto is presented in three movements, each having its unique style, so that they may be performed alone or as part of the entire piece. These different styles allow the performer to best show his/her range of performance techniques.
The first movement (8' 18") is in a classical style in full sonata form treating the band and soloist as equal partners. The recapitulation of the first subject contains a few variations from the exposition generally in the interplay between the soloist and the band.
The opening of the second movement (6' 7") is derived from the set of chords that herald the cadenza of the first movement. The rest of the movement is derived from the harmonic structure of the hymn tune Praise My Soul, The King of Heaven, which appears in triumph at the end.
The third movement (5' 34") also works well as a standalone piece in its own right.
A version for bass trombone/euphonium and piano is also available for recital or rehearsal.
Price £50