Review

Sy Brandon
Adages: Six Vignettes for Trombone Quartet:

Wrightsville, PA, United States
Publisher: Co-op Press
Date of Publication: 2011

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones

Each movement in this well constructed quartet is inspired by a familiar saying of conventional wisdom. In Vignette I: “The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence,” Brandon uses canon, as if the imitating player found something “greener” and worth imitating in the statement of the initial player. Ironically the movement ends with first trombone playing the theme alone, wondering if anyone will follow. According to the composer, open fifths and fourths in the accompaniment of Vignette II: “Absence makes the heart grow fonder,” portray hollow longing as the first trombone and bass trombone engage in a lyrical duet. Vignette III: “Time flies when you are having fun,” is a light march in 6/8 meter with playful, syncopated twists. The melodic line is passed in short segments between all parts and demands extremely nimble low register playing from bass trombone. Vignette IV: “Every cloud has a silver lining,” features intertwined lyrical melodic lines in the low and middle register of the trombone. Vignette V: “He who hesitates is lost,” is based on a syncopated rhythmic figure which is then manipulated throughout. This piece requires precise rhythm from all players, and as the title indicates, any hesitation can cause ensemble problems. The final movement: “A rolling stone gathers no moss,” is a perpetual mobile in 6/8 meter with a constant stream of chromatic eighth notes passed between all parts. Adages is a good addition to college trombone quartet literature. Though it requires a competent bass trombonist, ranges are not taxing. It is an excellent piece that emphasizes ensemble playing and rhythmic integrity in a student quartet, but will satisfy advanced quartets.  

-Timothy Howe
University of Missouri