Review

Elizabeth Raum
Diversions:
3 tenor, 1 bass trombone

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 1998 / 2020
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones

This work was written in 1998 for the Aurora Trombone Quartet. One of its outstanding attributes is even distribution of interesting and challenging music: all parts get something interesting to play! The Aurora Quartet's recording can be heard on the Cherry Classics website.

Structurally, the work is episodic, beginning with a Moderato tempo for 19 measures ending with a G.P. The next section is more fully orchestrated, but still contrapuntal in texture. Rhythmic unisons between pairs of players appear. This section is longer than the first, running 55 measures and coming to a close with a trio of players in rhythmic unison. In the third section material similar to that of the opening is heard in short, soloistic passages. A fourth section starts with a new tempo, Allegro, and new textures, more homophonic. This section lasts 22 measures and features a sort of motto or commentary in the first trombone with repeated 16th notes. There follows quite a short section, more dramatic with mutes and flutter tongue for 7 measures. Next comes meno mosso with a trio of trombones 2, 3 and 4, lasting a short time. Then an Allegro lasting 17 measures. It is dramatic, generally homophonic, leading to more soloistic playing in the first part. Four measures of first trombone solo lead to an Andante, contrasting the first part with a dialog in parts 3 and 4, ending in a short cadenza for the first part. This section is 12 measures long. The next section has the feeling of the opening but without the direct thematic reminiscences – 16 measures. There ensues the final Allegro in which the earlier contrapuntal texture becomes more fugue-like, ending after 19 measures with a loud, A major chord.

Ms. Raum’s Diversions is a solid piece that repays group study and practice. Ensemble unity and independence are important along with the development of good blend. Ranges are not excessive, although there are wide leaps. All in all, a good piece!