Review

Christopher Coleman
Reflections:

Ithaca, NY, United States
Publisher: Nichols Music
Date of Publication: 2001

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 5 trombones

This work is given in a single movement marked Adagio quarter equals 69. It begins in 3/4 meter with a meditative, choral-like opening, moves to a 6/8 section with greater rhythm interest, and returns to the choral style again to end the work. The middle section is contrapuntal in nature and features the bass trombones. Although no indication is given one way or the other, it seems the pulse of the 6/8 section creates best rhythmic interest if placed on the eighth note instead of dotted quarter but either functions.

The work is scored for 3 tenors and 2 basses with an optional tenor clef part for trombone 1. Ranges are reasonable but require a solid first player as it extends g-c2. The other tenor trombone ranges comprise 2) c-e-flat1, 3) G-e-flat1. Bass trombone 1 can easily be played on a large bore tenor; however, the tone will be less satisfactory; it has a range of F-g-flat. Bass trombone 2 is a true bass trombone part and has a range of FF-d-flat.

The work was written for the Interlochen Arts Academy Trombone Choir while the composer was working with the group. The piece is quite playable and suitable for college ensembles or high schools with a solid bass trombonist and first player. Coleman was born in 1958, is a trombonist, and is currently Composition Coordinator of the Hong Kong Baptist University Department of Music and Fine Arts.

-Robert Kehle
Pittsburg State University