Review

Jeff Dunn
Cougar Fanfare:
Five trombones

Markham, Ontario, Canada
Publisher: Eighth Note publications
Date of Publication: 2019
URL: http://www.enpmusic.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 5 trombones

Cougar Fanfare is a brief, straightforward, and accessible fanfare which can be performed by either a trombone quintet or larger ensemble.  The fanfare was composed for, and premiered by, a high school trombone ensemble; its technical/musical content is suited for such an ensemble.  Triplet eight-note figures are present throughout the composition and most often occur in alternating duets between the various parts or uniformly in a quartet among the top four parts.  The fifth part mostly employs a contrasting quarter-note triplet figure requiring rhythmic independence by the performer(s).  The pitch range of each part is limited, f-f¹, c-e¹, c-c¹, A-a, and F-c, and well within the ability of the intended ensemble. Each part is notated in bass-clef and all parts may be performed on an instrument without an f-attachment. Ample opportunities are encountered to address basic challenges of ensemble cohesion, unified articulation, rhythmic precision, and chordal intonation. This composition is a functional and affable work most germane for use in educational situations.