Review

Georg Frederic Handel
Hail the Conquering Hero from “Judas Maccabaeus”:

Arranged by Arthur Frackenpohl


Delevan, NY, United States
Publisher: Kendor Music
Date of Publication: 2005
URL: http://www.kendormusic.com

Piano score and solo part

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

Prominent composer Arthur Frackenpohl has taken this famous melody and arranged it for solo trombone and piano. Set in E-flat, its range extends from B-flat to f1, with ossia pitches written up to g1. Frackenpohl has added appropriate dynamic and articulation markings, some which will require the student to address slide motion on the same partial under a slur. Parts utilize readable print and the piano part is quite accessible. Toward the end of the solo, rhythms become more challenging, yet never exceed sixteenth note durations. Control of alternate positions will aid successful performance. Originally titled, “See, the Conqu'ring hero comes,” this melody gained fame through its continued performances at civic celebrations by brass bands. This is an excellent Baroque era solo for the enthusiastic middle school or early high school level student that will enhance scale and arpeggio study in a musical context. This would be an ideal SmartMusic piece; at the time of this review it is not listed in their database.

-David Stern
Lewiston, Maine