Review

Oscar Böhme
Berceuse, Op.7:

Arranged by William Stanley


Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2025
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Piano score and solo aprt

Primary Genre: Solo Alto Trombone - with piano

Oscar Böhme was a German composer and trumpeter whose output included a substantial body of brass music, perhaps best known for his trumpet concerto. The Berceuse, originally written for cornet and piano, is a fine example of his gift for lyrical melody. William Stanley's arrangement for alto trombone and piano transposes the work down a whole step from its original key but is otherwise faithful to the original.

At only 91 measures, this is not a lengthy work, but it is a rewarding one. The alto trombone part reaches up to e2, and while this lies very high, a strong tenor trombonist should be able to manage it. The piano part is not particularly demanding and should be within reach of most average college level pianists. The parts and score are very well edited for clarity and legibility.

The Berceuse is a welcome addition to the alto trombone repertory, which, while limited, continues to grow. It would make a lovely and distinctive choice for any trombone recital program.