Review

Antonio J. García
Bones at the Ready:
four part jazz trombone choir and optional drum set

Greeley, CO, United States
Publisher: UNC Jazz Press
Date of Publication: 2010

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones
Secondary Genre: Jazz Material - ensemble

This piece was composed for the 2010 International Trombone Festival Jazz Choir. Bones at the Ready is a welcome addition to the jazz trombone quartet/choir repertory. There are few works for these ensembles that are playable by students or amateurs. Antonio Garcia has wisely created a fun, easy-to-play chart that still swings and sounds great; not an easy task! The lead part tops out at a-flat1 and the bass part ranges from g-flat down to BB-flat. Nothing awkward, everything “lays well” on the slide. Parts are extremely clear and the optional drum part notation is superb. The fact that this tune was written to be played without rhythm section parts is a nice feature. The drum part is a strong addition and adds much to the piece, but is not mandatory for a good performance. Of course, playing without rhythm instruments will demand a great sense of time from the trombonists. The form is B-flat blues with solo space in the second and bass parts. The lack of a rhythm section may create some challenges for younger performers, especially in the solo sections, but adding the drum set will help. Overall, a fine work for an intermediate level jazz trombone quartet or choir.

-Chris Buckholz
University of Northern Iowa