Review

Ludwig van Beethoven
Ode to Joy:

Arranged by Michael Stewart

Brass trio (trumpet, horn, trombone) with piano.

N.p.,
Publisher: Wehr’s Music House
Date of Publication: 2007

Score and parts.

Primary Genre: Brass Ensemble - 3 brass
Secondary Genre: Chamber Music

There is always a need for music that is utilitarian in nature. That is, music that is useful, playable with minimal rehearsal and familiar to the listener. The arranger of this version of “Ode to Joy” has taken the theme from the Ninth Symphony of Beethoven to craft a work that will find many uses in a variety of settings. Just do not expect the same result you would get with a full orchestra, choir and soloists. The piano, trombone and horn players will not experience technical or tessitura problems while the trumpet goes to a3 above the staff and moves around more. The version provided this reviewer is orchestrated as stated above, however the score indicates there is a version for two trumpets and trombone.

-Mark Lammers
Gustavus Adolphus College