Review

Henry Wolking
BEAD:

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2023
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 3 trombones

Henry Wolking’s BEAD for three trombones is an engaging trombone trio that offers both accessibility and intriguing compositional elements, making it a joy to perform at various skill levels. This work consists of four concise movements, each lasting approximately two minutes, and is suitable for stronger intermediate to advanced players.

Each movement emphasizes a distinct compositional approach and explores a variety of time and key signatures, including 4/4, 3/4, and 5/4. The title BEAD cleverly reflects the tonal centers of the four movements: B-flat, E-flat, A-flat, and D-flat. This thoughtful structure adds an extra layer of interest for performers and audiences alike.

Henry Wolking, a composer, trombonist, and conductor, served as a long-time professor of jazz at the University of Utah. His experience and understanding of the trombone are evident in this work, which would be an excellent choice for advanced high school students preparing for contests or as a chamber piece for a sophomore or junior recital. The trio is written entirely in bass clef, and the third trombone part can be performed on either tenor or bass trombone, providing flexibility for ensembles. The technical demands and musical opportunities in this piece ensure that it will be both challenging and rewarding for performers, with each player given moments to shine.

BEAD for three trombones was donated for review by Cherry Classics Music and is available at www.CherryClassics.com. Combined written-pitch instrument ranges: AA-flat to b-flat1 (optional d-flat2).