Review

Jacob Handl
Pater Noster:

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2005
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and aprts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 8 trombones

This Ralph Sauer transcription of Pater Noster, (translated Our Father), is a fine addition to a trombone choir concert program. Sauer uses 2/2 meter to keep parts clean and readable. The choir is divided into two quartets where parts 1 and 5 are lead voices and 4 and 8 are the bass for each group. Performing with the quartets separated in antiphonal style creates an excellent effect. This is a playable arrangement for college or even high school players; the key of B-flat major helps younger students. Parts 1 and 5 range only up to b-flat1 and parts 4 and 8 are well within the tenor trombone range with only optional trigger notes listed on part 8. Having said this, do not be concerned that the limited range will equate to limited colors, textures or enjoyment. Sauer does an excellent job to create a wonderful conversation between the two quartets and the additional interplay and strata within each quartet are just as interesting and enjoyable. Sauer’s obvious knowledge of the instrument is evident not only in the tessitura of each part, but also in the voicing of chords and especially in the specific articulations used. The ending is of particular interest with Sauer employing all 8 voices in strata using both ascending and descending eighth notes lines. Parts and score are clearly laid out with no page turn issues. I highly recommend this transcription as a fine addition for younger tenor trombonists, or as a nice easier piece in a college trombone choir concert. 

-Tom Zugger
Capitol University