Review

Adriano Banchieri
La Battaglia:

Arranged by Craig Kaucher

6 tenors, 2 basses

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Publisher: Wehr's Music House
Date of Publication: 2007
URL: http://www.wehrs-music-house.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 8 trombones

Adriano Banchieri who lived from 1568 to 1634 was an almost exact contemporary of Monteverdi, whose revolutionary harmonic innovations he rejected, thereby no doubt ensuring his enduring relative obscurity. La Battaglia (from Canzoni alla Francese, published in 1596) was originally written for double recorder choir. ‘Battle’ canzonas were a popular form at that time, relying on a basically simple idea and extensive use of imitation. This particular battle, never vicious, ends amicably in what can only be regarded as an honourable draw. An arrangement for 6 tenor and 2 bass trombones obviously calls up heavier artillery than that available in the 16th century. However, performance will be most satisfactory when the forces are used with restraint; especial finesse is required in execution of the sixteenths. I think this is an effective transcription for double trombone choir (the arranger is a bass trombonist), and provides an enjoyable playing experience. There are no real difficulties, both first parts top out at a1. Printing is of exemplary clarity.

-Keith Davies Jones
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada