Passages

Written for Don Lucas. Finalist of the 1996 BTS Composers' Competition. PASSAGES for Trombone and Piano (1996) consists of five short statements analogous to passages which may be found in a single large musical movement. The first, marked Lento, features an intensive trombone solo with harmonics produced on the B and C strings inside the piano. The second passage, marked Poco mosso, is a powerful musical statement by both trombone and piano. The third passage is a chant-like recitative for trombone with carillon gestures occurring in the piano accompaniment. The fourth passage, Reflection, features the effects of the notes of the trombone performed across the strings of the piano while the depressed pedal of the piano holds all sympathetic vibrations created. The final passage, marked Presto, is a brilliant toccata for both instruments. PASSAGES for Trombone and Piano was awarded the 1996 British Trombone Society Composers' Competition.