Review

C. Austin Miles
In the Garden:

Arranged by Mark A. Prater


,
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

In the Garden, a gospel song from the early 20th century, was popularized by Homer Rodeheaver, the song leader, vocalist, and trombonist for many of Billy Sunday’s evangelistic campaigns. It remains beloved among an older generation of American churchgoers—my grandmother counted it among her favorites.  

This transcription is a straightforward two-stanza version. The melody is confined to the first trombone part except for one striking unison moment near the end. The other parts provide a simple, unobtrusive accompaniment. The arrangement is easily accessible to intermediate level trombonists—its highest note is an f1. There are a few minor caveats that should be noted. First, parts one and two are notated in tenor clef—a barrier for some young players. Next, although published for trombone quartet, the score reveals that the fourth part was originally intended for tuba, and accordingly its tessitura is more comfortable for tuba or bass trombone. A few simple octave adjustments will allow a large bore tenor to perform the fourth part while still avoiding overlapping parts. 
 
-Paul Overly
Bob Jones University