Review

Johann Sebastian Bach
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring:

Arranged by Lloyd Conley


Delevan, NY, United States
Publisher: Kendor Music
Date of Publication: 2004
URL: http://www.kendormusic.com

Piano score and solo part

Primary Genre: Elementary Material - solo
Secondary Genre: Solo Tenor Trombone - with piano

This setting of the popular Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring has been simplified and adapted to better suit the needs of young trombonists. It is set in the key of E-flat, a third down from the original, so range extends from B-flat to e-flat1. A few notes have been judiciously left out of the melody line to give the player a chance to breath. The arranger has also added a four bar introduction to give the player a chance to settle the key and style in the mind before playing. While this arrangement is not particularly authentic or spectacular, it presents a familiar piece for young students that is useful and suitable for study and performance in a variety of settings. From a pedagogical standpoint, it is also useful for developing fluid legato, melodic phrasing and compound meter. It may also appeal to more advanced players looking for a short and easy piece suitable for church or Christmas use. The paper and printing are of reasonably good quality, and rehearsal numbers are frequent and well placed. The accompaniment part does not present any serious technical challenges, but requires a pianist with fairly good rhythmic skills.

-Wayne Groves
Aguascalientes Symphony Orchestra