Review

Nick Woud
Evocation:
2 C trumpets, tenor trombone, bass trombone

Denton, TX, United States
Publisher: Kagarice Brass Editions
Date of Publication: 2000

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Brass Ensemble - 4 brass

Evocation is a clever piece scored for two trumpets presumably in C though there is no indication, tenor trombone, and bass trombone obligato. There are no substitute parts in this one hundred and fourteen measure piece, and the tempos alternate between fifty, sixty, sixty-eight, seventy-six, and ninety-six beats per measure. There are no less than twelve tempo changes contained in Evocation, as the composer also utilizes alternation between 2/4, 3/4, common time, 5/4 , and 6/4 as many as thirty-three times. Mr. Woud seems to quote and paraphrase several important brass themes while setting a variety of moods. This piece is best performed and appreciated by advanced level college students at an upper-tier program. Evocation is a recital-type selection, which will take some preparation, but the parts, particularly tenor trombone and especially bass trombone, are quite active, and a rollicking good time to play. Woud’s writing is at its most cohesive and effective in the lyrical legato sections and during the brief counterpoint section. His writing is somewhat less integrated at other times given the frequent changes in tempi, meter, and rhythmic subdivisions. Every bass trombonist who performs with a brass quartet at the advanced college or professional level should purchase this piece, and Mr. Woud should be encouraged to write more for this under-served instrument.

-Dave Brubeck
Miami Dade College, Kendall Campus