Review


Phil Wilson
Dad’s Song for Trombone Trio:

Waltham, MA, United States
Publisher: Nichols Music Company
Date of Publication: 1994

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 3 trombones

This is an original tune composed by Phil and his father, Phil Wilson, Sr., in 1939 and first performed at the funeral of the senior Wilson in 1988. The music itself is interesting and challenging. The first part is given in tenor clef with range to c-sharp2. The second part is given some of the lead and a range to a1. The third part needs a bass trombone and perhaps a double valve to negotiate the low BB which occurs only once, but an important note at that place in the score. There are frequent key and time signature changes throughout the work that start and end with short chorale scoring and other places that swing, as well as other fun ideas you might expect from Phil Wilson. One especially interesting surprise is a four-bar rest in all parts that will get audience attention. The work requires high level musicians who are willing to spend time with the notes.  

-Mark Lammers
Gustavus Adolphus College

Reviewer: Review Author
Review Published January 8, 2025
Appears in Journal 37:1 (January, 2009)