Trumpet Voluntary No. 1: 2 Trumpets & Keyboard Part(s)

Arranging this organ showpiece for real trumpets gives you something rare at the medium level: authentic Baroque fanfare music that hasn't been dulled by over-arrangement. David Marlatt's version respects Boyce's elegant harmonic language while letting two trumpets cut through with the brilliance the piece demands. It's substantial enough for festivals and special events but sits comfortably in the hands of players still building their range and endurance.

Courtly and celebratory, with the gravitas of a royal fanfare. The opening unfolds in quiet dignity before the trumpets emerge with brilliant, energetic themes that dance over the keyboard's harmonic foundation. It's music that commands attention without shouting.

Trumpet duos at the high school or early college level who are ready for something beyond student arrangements but still developing technical facility. It works equally well for community bands, church settings, or contest programs looking for a piece with historical pedigree and genuine musical substance.

• Shape the slow introduction with subtle dynamic breathing rather than abrupt contrasts; let the organ support the trumpets' quieter entrance before the fanfare material arrives.
• Balance the two trumpet lines so the first part doesn't overshadow the second, especially in passages where they move in parallel or close intervals.
• Articulate the fanfare-like themes with clean tonguing that suggests courtly ceremony without becoming stiff or overdone.
• Coordinate with the keyboard player on the tempo of the transition from slow introduction to the Voluntary proper; mark this spot clearly so everyone moves together.

Feature this as a standalone brass highlight on a concert, or pair it with other Baroque works for a themed program exploring early keyboard and trumpet music. Its moderate length and ceremonial character also make it fitting for special occasions, graduations, or festival competitions where you want to showcase mature musicality from an emerging ensemble.

• Articulation control in fast, repeated-note passages
• Balance and blend in two-part trumpet writing
• Baroque style and phrasing conventions
• Communication with keyboard accompaniment
• Range extension into the upper register with clarity