Review

Chris M. Sharpe
Garza Lane:

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Publisher: C. Sharpe Editions
Date of Publication: 2021
URL: http://www.CSharpeEditions.com

Performance score

Primary Genre: Solo Bass/Contrabass Trombone - unaccompanied
Secondary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - unaccompanied

The composer wrote a detailed program about this work:

“Garza Lane was written in April and May of 2021 for the North Texas Low Brass Camp’s summer camp solo competition. It is the composer’s attempt to musically portray the experience of going fishing at Lake Lewisville in the DFW metroplex. Garza Lane is the name of a road near a portion of Lake Lewisville. Elvis Moreno and I started fishing at a spot near this road during the Covid-19 pandemic as a way to get out of the house and safely enjoy an outdoor activity without having to worry about being around too many people. The piece depicts waking up early in the morning and getting coffee on the way to the fishing spot, watching the sunrise as we walk to our favorite fishing spots, seeing fish jumping out of the water, and finally catching an elusive fish before releasing it back into the water and starting the process all over again. This work was originally intended for tenor trombone, with the bass trombone version being transposed down a perfect fifth.”

The melodic, tonal, formal, and rhythmic aspects are all quite traditional. The musical styles, as well as dynamics, and articulations are interesting and varied. Its technical, dynamic, and range elements as well as its musical style, are all within the capabilities of a good university-level performer.

Dr. Chris M. Sharpe is currently Visiting Assistant Professor of Trombone at Murray State University. He has previously taught at the University of Central Arkansas and Hendrix College. His arrangements and compositions have been performed at international events such as the International Trombone Festival, the International Women’s Brass Conference, the Lätzsch Music Festival, and the Texas Music Educators’ Association, and by ensembles throughout the United States including trombone ensembles at Columbus State University, the University of Central Arkansas, the University of North Texas, Vanderbilt University, and many more. He is the founder of C. Sharpe Editions, a music publishing company specializing in works for trombone and trombone ensembles. For a full listing of his works visit: https://www.csharpeeditions.com.