Review

Traditional
Spirituals for Trombone Trio:

Arranged by David Uber


Delevan, NY, United States
Publisher: Kendor Music
Date of Publication: 2006
URL: http://www.kendormusic.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 3 trombones
Secondary Genre: Elementary Material - ensemble

Prominent brass arranger and composer, David Uber has set this collection of three spirituals. “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” is composed in A-flat and opens with a 2-measure introduction followed by a twice-repeated setting of the tune, and concludes with a more complex third verse. Set in F major, “Little David Play on Your Harp” is marked Allegretto and uses syncopation and effective glissandi (in the third part!) to provide an engaging setting of this tune. Indicated in 2/2 meter and G major, the third spiritual is “Goin’ to Shout All Over God’s Heaven.” This is scored almost as a contrapuntal duet between first and third parts, with the second part providing harmonic support. Stylistically appropriate, all these tunes have a distinct jazz rhythmic feel to them. Uber’s obvious command of brass arranging is evident in the orchestration of harmonies and idiomatic writing. Alternate notes are given in various parts to ease potential range issues (lack of trigger), with no part scored above f1 or below F.  While the first part is written above the other parts, there are times when the third part takes the lead, both in range and melody. This is an ideal arrangement for a church setting that requires little time to effectively prepare, or a fun alternative to traditional trios for younger and amateur players. 
 
-David Stern
Lewiston, Maine