Review

John Philip Sousa
The Gladiator:

Arranged by Andrew Converse


Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2010
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones

Originally penned in 1886, The Gladiator is widely considered to be John Philip Sousa’s first successful march. Arranger Andrew Converse stays true to the original key and form in his challenging arrangement of this march for trombone quartet. Although all parts are written in bass clef, musical integrity is not sacrificed for ease of playability. The first tenor part reaches b-flat1 and the lowest tenor part extends to low D. The bass trombone part is a true bass trombone part extending down to FF-sharp. In an attempt to capture the sound of trumpets and woodwinds playing original melodic material, Converse cleverly distributes these melodies creating some technical difficulties particularly in the first trombone part. Accented quarter notes in the pedal register at the break strain present an interesting challenge in the bass trombone part. This arrangement would be best performed with three tenor trombones and a bass trombone at the advanced college and/or professional level. Stylistic markings are meticulously placed throughout the melody, which is passed through all parts at different times. Articulation and style markings are used less frequently in accompaniment passages, which is common in Sousa marches.

Mr. Converse demonstrates excellent ability to condense this piece written for military band into a quartet without sacrificing significant musical nuances. The melody and style of the piece are well represented and historically correct in every part which adds to the challenge of performing this arrangement. This is yet another enjoyable arrangement from Cherry Classics Music. 

-Joseph M. Lewis Jr. 
Bowling Green State University