Three Cardinals, The: Conductor Score & Parts

Lyrical and structured, with a character that feels grounded in the classical brass trio tradition. The piece moves with gentle purpose, avoiding both bombast and excessive sentiment.

This trio works well for intermediate trumpet students ready to play in ensemble settings beyond the full band. It suits classroom brass ensembles, chamber music programs, or recital contexts where three trumpets and piano can rehearse together.

• Balance the three trumpet lines so no single part dominates; the piano provides the harmonic foundation, not the lead trumpet. Each player should listen across the section.
• Work the articulation patterns together as a unit. Clean, unified tonguing in the trio matters more than individual precision.
• Let the pianist shape the accompaniment with gentle rubato to support the brass sound, especially in softer passages.

Program this as a standalone chamber offering at a spring concert, or use it to showcase developing trumpet players in a smaller ensemble format. It pairs naturally with other brass chamber music on a recital that mixes soloists and small groups.

• Listening and balancing within a brass trio
• Sustaining musical phrasing across ensemble lines
• Responding to piano accompaniment and following a collaborative partner
• Maintaining intonation across a three-part texture