Review

Johann Sebastian Bach
Et in Spiritum Sanctum: Aria from Mass in B Minor, Credo, No. 7

Arranged by Daniel S. Augustine

2 b-flat trumpets (cornets), horn in F, trombone (or euphonium), tuba

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2024
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Brass Ensemble - 5 brass

Et in Spiritum Sanctum is a celebrated aria from the Credo of J.S. Bach’s Mass in B Minor, a work widely regarded as the pinnacle of Bach’s compositional output and among his most enduring achievements. In this brass quintet arrangement by Daniel S. Augustine, the trombone is featured prominently as a solo voice, emerging distinctly from the ensemble throughout. The result is a compelling and expressive addition to the brass quintet repertoire.

This quintet is well suited for intermediate to advanced performers and would be an excellent addition to the repertoire of a university-level brass quintet, as well as to the library of an established professional ensemble, particularly those that regularly perform in church services. The trombone part (or euphonium, as noted in the score and part) is written entirely in bass clef and spends much of the piece in the instrument’s mid to upper range, requiring strong endurance and efficiency from the performer. Both trumpet parts are written in b-flat. The piece is relatively slow, set in 6/8 meter, and highlights the lyrical qualities a brass quintet is capable of producing.

Et in Spiritum Sanctum was donated for review by Cherry Classics Music and is available at www.CherryClassics.com.  Written-pitch instrument ranges: combined b-flat trumpets – b to b2, horn – c1 to f2, trombone – G to a-flat1, tuba GG to g.