Review

Ian McDougall
Concerto for Bass Trombone:
Trombone and piano.

Coventry, , United Kingdom
Publisher: Warwick Music, Ltd.
Date of Publication: 1998

Solo part with piano reduction; orchestra parts also available for purchase.

Primary Genre: Solo Bass/Contrabass Trombone - with piano

Ian McDougall is a world-famous Canadian jazz trombonist with a multitude of compositions, both jazz and classical, to his name. He is best known for his work as lead and solo trombonist with Rob McConnell’s Boss Brass. His Concerto for Bass Trombone is a substantial work in three movements: Largo-Allegro vivo, Larghetto (marked “Freely, with a bluesy feel”), and Allegro moderato con furore. The concerto is approximately 16 minutes long and is dedicated to Murray Crewe. 

The concerto is quite chromatic, but tonal. There is no key signature. While there are substantial technical challenges, no extreme techniques are required. Range extends from EE-flat to b-flat1. The performer must execute several scoops and glisses, all of which lay easily on the instrument. The most complex rhythm is the equivalent of a 4/3, 4 quarter notes performed in the space of 2 dotted quarter notes in 12/8 time. There are some long, sustained low notes that may present a breathing challenge and some rapid technical passages in both the low register and upper register in the outer movements. The only mute needed is an optional bucket mute in the second movement. Overall, the concerto is an interesting work that is a valuable addition to the limited solo bass trombone with orchestra repertoire. It is well suited for advanced college and professional recitals.

-Frank Gazda
Delaware State University