"Prince of Denmark's March" Fantasy: 2 Trumpets & Organ Part(s)

Treybig respects Clarke's original without being bound by it. He quotes the familiar melody just enough to ground the audience, then launches into completely new compositional territory that keeps both players engaged and the organist fully involved. It's the kind of piece that works beautifully at a festival or concert where the audience knows the original and will delight in hearing where this takes them.

The piece opens with a nod to the stately, ceremonial character of Clarke's march, but quickly evolves into something more dramatic and virtuosic. Contrasting textures keep the ear engaged, from delicate interplay to bold, full-voiced declarations, before culminating in a brilliant finish that feels both earned and exuberant.

This works for intermediate trumpet duos with access to an organist and the musical maturity to handle stylistic variety. It's particularly suited for players preparing contest and festival repertoire, or any ensemble looking to program something that celebrates a baroque standard while making a contemporary statement.

• Balance the cadenza so the two trumpet lines speak clearly without one dominating. This moment showcases individual artistry, so give each player space to shine.
• Coordinate with your organist on the re-harmonizations early in rehearsal. The harmonic language shifts significantly from Clarke's setting, and locked ensemble will transform how listeners experience the familiar tune.
• Approach the closing coda with the dramatic weight it deserves. Build momentum through the final section so the ending lands with full color and impact.
• Attend closely to articulation and style shifts throughout. Treybig's piece moves through several textural worlds, and clarity in tonguing and phrasing will highlight each transition.

Pair this with other baroque-rooted works or lighter brass fare to create a concert moment that surprises informed listeners. It functions equally well as a contest selection or as a feature on a recital where you want to demonstrate your ensemble's range and musicianship. The piece also works nicely in a program celebrating chamber music or trumpet repertoire, where the novelty of two trumpets with organ (rather than the more typical keyboard) adds distinction.

• Managing stylistic shifts and articulation changes within a single work
• Performing with harmonic independence while maintaining ensemble unity
• Executing cadenza passages with control and musical intent
• Balancing as equal voices in duet writing
• Responding to varied textural demands and re-harmonizations of familiar material