Eric Ewazen
Grand Canyon Octet:
Columbia, MO, United States
Publisher: International Trombone Association Manuscript Press
Date of Publication: 1997
Score and parts
Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 8 trombones
Grand Canyon Octet:
Columbia, MO, United States
Publisher: International Trombone Association Manuscript Press
Date of Publication: 1997
Score and parts
Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 8 trombones
Grand Canyon Octet was premiered in the spring of 1997 by Texas Tech Trombone Choir under the direction of Don Lucas and subsequently performed at the ITA Festival at the University of Illinois in May. It was originally commissioned for horn choir by Thomas Bacon, hence the Arizona reference in the title, and much of the original horn figurations are retained in the trombone version. The composer gives the following program notes for this three-movement work: “The first movement is a rollicking allegro with playful motives tossed from instrument to instrument. The second movement is a dramatic and soulful lament. The third movement is in rondo form, with a resonant and striking main theme alternating with lively contrasting sections.” Movements can be performed independently if desired. All eight parts provide technical challenges. The top four parts are written in tenor clef and parts five, six, and seven have passages in tenor clef as well. It is recommended for a successful presentation that parts six, seven, and eight be performed by bass trombonists. If the entire work is performed, some trading of parts will be necessary as the top two parts are demanding in range and endurance. Complete statements of thematic material are passed from one part to another requiring a matching of tone and rhythmic precision for successful performance. Command of alternate positions is essential to effectively execute syncopated triplets and triplets on the same partial. The meter shifts are not complicated and the harmonies are typical of Ewazen’s compositional style. Awkward page turns are present in most parts. Because of the numerous technical demands, it is suggested that Grand Canyon Octet be staged by a university or professional ensemble. This work has been performed numerous times as of the date of this review and appears to have become a standard in the trombone choir repertoire. -David Stern Lewiston, ME