Review

Johann Sebastian Bach
Bach Masterpieces For Brass Quartet:

Arranged by Charles Evans


Delevan, NY, United States
Publisher: Kendor Music
Date of Publication: 2007
URL: http://www.kendormusic.com

Primary Genre: Brass Ensemble - 4 brass

This is a good Bach collection for two trumpets and two trombones, great as study material as well as performance. Any of these arrangements can stand alone in a concert or a church service. There is much for every player to do; the second trombonist will find an F-attachment instrument helpful. There are five selections:

l. Sinfonia (from Cantata 156). The tempo is Andante, quarter note=80. The melody is passed from player to player in the top three parts; second trombone plays the bass line throughout. Each section ranges in volume from pp, p, mp, to mf then gradually decreases in volume. Playing time 3:00.

2. Wachet Auf (from Cantata 140). Tempo is Allegretto, quartet note=80; same tempo as number one but  many more notes. The familiar counterpoint is passed from player to player in the top three parts with second trombone providing the solid bass line. Playing time 3:45.

3. Now Thank We All Our God (from Cantata 79). Tempo is Moderato, quarter note=120. This hymn tune moves along with mostly quarter and eighth notes throughout.   Playing time 2:20.

4. Fugue No.2 (from The Well-Tempered Clavier BWV 847). Tempo is Moderato, quarter note=72. Second trombone introduces the theme and each instrument gets a good workout. It is the most challenging of the pieces so far and will put the grade 5 players on the spot to endure to the end. Great fun! Playing time 1:45.

5. Fugue No.16 (from The Well-Tempered Clavier BWV BWV 861). Tempo is Moderato, quarter note=80. The challenge posed here is much the same as in the fugue above.   Playing time 1:45. Presentation is excellent.

-Mike Halverson
Minneapolis, MN