Review

Miroslav Krejčí
Sonatina for Trombone and Piano:

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 1961
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Primary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

Miroslav Krejčí (1891-1964) was a prolific Czech composer with two operas, two symphonies, and various solo, chamber, vocal and piano music to his credit. This particular work was completed in 1948 but then lost for a time. It covers an extensive range, E-flat to d2, and switches between tenor and bass clefs throughout the work.  

The first movement of the Sonatina is full of angular melodies and rapidly changing styles. The second movement, tied to the composer’s work in opera, contains an opening recitative statement followed by a lyrical aria. The final movement is a fast 9/8 with challenging duple rhythms and climaxing to a high d2 at the end. A wide variety of tempo, articulation, and dynamic markings throughout the piece require a mature and flexible player who can incorporate all of the subtle differences into a convincing whole.  
Overall, this piece is quite original and interesting. It is nice to see a work that was previously thought to be lost forever, revived and made available to all.

-Eric High
St. Norbert College