Second Book of Trombone Solos: Trombone & Piano Book

From the patriotic energy of Gottschalk to the lyrical beauty of Puccini's familiar aria, these pieces offer genuine musical substance without overwhelming technical demands. You'll encounter baroque dance forms, romantic lyricism, and early modern sophistication all within reach. The combination of recognizable melodies and lesser-known treasures creates a program that feels both approachable and genuinely rewarding.

Trombonists who have moved beyond beginner method books and have solid fundamentals but are not yet prepared for advanced concerto and sonata literature. This collection serves as an ideal stepping stone for players developing confidence in a broader musical vocabulary. It's equally valuable for studio teachers building a recital program and ensemble directors seeking intermediate solo opportunities for advanced players.

• Approach the Ravel and Mussorgsky selections with careful attention to the dynamic shape the composer wrote; these pieces reward subtle phrasing over technical display.
• Use the piano accompaniment as an ensemble partner, not a background layer. Listening closely to harmonic movement will deepen your interpretation of each piece.
• Work through the appendix notes before rehearsing a piece; understanding the composer's intent and style conventions will make technical challenges feel purposeful.
• Progress through the book in the suggested order, but revisit earlier pieces after learning later ones. Your interpretation of the Pergolesi or De Fesch will deepen as your technique matures.

Extract pieces for a student recital showcasing different musical periods and styles; the progression from early intermediate to more advanced selections allows you to program a solo concerto, intermission number, or chamber collaboration that matches the player's current abilities. Consider pairing a lighter selection like the Marcello Allegro with a more substantial work such as the Telemann sonata within the same concert. The collection's variety also works well as supplemental solo material throughout the year, allowing advanced students to explore new styles while maintaining technique.

• Lyrical phrasing and dynamic control across contrasting musical styles
• Secure intonation in ensemble contexts with piano accompaniment
• Baroque articulation and ornamentation techniques
• Interpretation of 19th-century romantic melody
• Collaborative listening and rhythmic precision with a pianist
• Reading and understanding composer intent through style-specific appendix notes