Concerto in C, BWV 594 (Movement I): 2 Trumpets & Keyboard Part(s)

Marlatt's arrangement captures the architectural grandeur of Bach's original while giving two trumpet players genuine occasion to shine. The opening scalar figures demand technical control and rhythmic precision, making this a legitimate contest vehicle that doesn't sacrifice musical substance for showiness. It's the kind of piece that teaches ensemble discipline because both players must match articulation, breath placement, and phrasing while navigating Bach's counterpoint.

Brilliant and ceremonial, with the energy of a virtuoso display piece grounded in mathematical precision. The scalar opening feels assured and ornate, like Bach is proving both his technical mastery and his ability to organize complexity into grace.

This arrangement serves advanced high school and college trumpet students who are ready for the technical and musical demands of authentic Baroque style. It's equally valuable for community bands and semi-professional ensembles seeking substantial duet repertoire with keyboard support.

• Clarify the scale passages by thinking of them as connected phrases rather than mechanical runs. Bach's scalar writing always has harmonic function; let the keyboard anchor the harmonic rhythm while the trumpets shape the lines.
• Balance the two trumpet parts so neither dominates during the opening concerto section. These are collaborative equals, not a soloist and accompaniment.
• Mark your breath points before rehearsal. Baroque phrasing often works against modern breath patterns, and settling these details early prevents mid-phrase gasps.
• Work the keyboard part into full rehearsals once the trumpet line is secure. The organ's independence and harmonic role will clarify where the trumpets sit in the larger structure.

Feature this as the centerpiece of a Baroque-focused concert or as a contest entry for advanced brass duets. It also works well in a program exploring keyboard concertos across style periods, bridging baroque organ writing with modern trumpet timbre.

• Baroque articulation and phrasing conventions
• Scalar passage work with rhythmic clarity and legibility
• Ensemble balance between two equal trumpet parts
• Coordination with keyboard accompaniment
• Reading and interpreting figured bass harmony