Review

Arcangelo Corelli
Three Trio Sonatas:

Arranged by Ralph Sauer


Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2006
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 3 trombones

The three sonatas presented here are No.2 in D minor and No.3 in G major from Opus 1, which is comprised of sonatas da chiesa; and No.1 in C major from Opus 4, which is a set of sonatas da camera. All follow the same pattern of slow-fast-slow-fast, but otherwise offer some measure of stylistic contrast. The sonata da camera includes two quick dance movements, in this example Corrente and Allemanda. The style of the sonata da chiesa is more austere, the writing more contrapuntal and often essentially vocal in character. The original instrumentation of both sets is 2 violins and continuo with figured bass.

In these elegantly crafted compositions, Corelli established the classical trio sonata in its definitive form. His writing eschews virtuosity, and these arrangements are well suited to trombone, presenting no undue difficulties. There are a few high c2s and d2s but tessitura is moderate. Parts are gracefully written and the resulting sonorities are pleasing. Playing time for each sonata is approximately eight minutes. Scoring is for two tenor and bass; 1st and 2nd parts are in tenor clef; ranges are 1st A-d2, 2nd A-c2, 3rd AA-e1. These are welcome and enjoyable additions to the still somewhat meagre repertoire for trombone trio.	

-Keith Davies Jones
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada