Benedicamus Domino: 2 Trumpets & Keyboard Part(s)

Scheidt's original vocal writing translates beautifully to brass, and David Marlatt's arrangement respects the music's lyrical contours while giving trumpets the space to breathe. The alternating duet sections with keyboard ritornellos create a natural architecture that works just as well in a concert setting as in a competition. You get polished Baroque craft without the technical extremes that can sideline less advanced players.

Restrained and devotional, with the kind of understated elegance that comes from clear-voiced counterpoint and simple harmonic language. The interplay between the two trumpets feels like a conversation, interrupted gracefully by the keyboard's supportive passages. There is warmth here, not drama.

Trumpet duos or small brass ensembles working at the intermediate level who want to perform authentic Baroque repertoire without requiring virtuosic solo technique. This works equally well for a church setting, chamber concert, or festival competition.

• Shape each duet phrase as though the two trumpets are singing the text together; the keyboard ritornello gives you a moment to reset articulation and energy.
• Balance the dynamic relationship between the two trumpet lines carefully in the duets. Neither voice should disappear, but the harmonic relationship needs clarity more than volume.
• Let the organ part guide your harmonic pulse. Scheidt's keyboard writing is direct and supportive, not elaborate; anchor your rhythm there.
• Check the keyboard player's score for tempo indications and observe them during ritornellos. The instrumental interludes should feel like natural breathing points, not tempo changes.

Pair this with other Baroque duets or pair-work to build a coherent Baroque brass segment, or use it as a shorter devotional moment on a mixed concert. For festival seasons, its medium difficulty and clear form make it accessible to develop yet sophisticated enough to hold its own alongside advanced repertoire.

• Baroque articulation and phrasing conventions
• Balancing two equal voices in duet texture
• Reading and responding to keyboard harmonic support
• Sustaining lyrical lines without vibrato excess
• Coordinating entrances and releases across a small ensemble