Review

Tylman Susato
Suite from the Danserye :

Arranged by Kevin Henry


FL, United States
Publisher: Wehr's Music House
Date of Publication: 2006
URL: http://www.wehrs-music-house.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones

Kevin Henry has skillfully transcribed this well-known Renaissance music for trombone quartet.  The result is a high-quality work, comfortably accessible for high school level trombonists. The suite is comprised of five contrasting dances--La Mourisque, Ronde, Branle quatre branles, Basse Danse Bergeret, and Pavane La Bataille--and provides a splendid opportunity to introduce young players to the captivating music of the Renaissance era.

Henry places the transcription in comfortable keys, B-flat and E-flat major, and in a reasonable tessitura. First trombone never rises above g1 and fourth never falls below E-flat. Although the first part carries the majority of the melodic responsibility, each part has important moments. Because of the nature of Renaissance dance, each movement features repeated sections. Following the performance “road maps” will be a challenge to younger players. The movements use diverse meters and require distinct styling, providing substantial musical challenges as well.

I recommend this transcription highly. Although the work seems to be targeted toward younger players, the music is substantive enough to satisfy more advanced players. It is easy to envision it on a collegiate level trombone quartet or even trombone choir recital.

-Paul Overly
Bob Jones University