[TPIN] Brass Quintet - opinions on 2nd trumpet key

[Ellis Workman]

The goal should be a "matched" sound regardless
of what instruments are used. Using the samed pitched
instruments will not guarantee this, nor will using
the same horn (brand and or model), nor will using
the same mouthpiece.

A good example of this is the Stockholm Brass recording
of the Ewald Quintets, particularly Quintet #4 which
has trumpet 1 on Eb and trumpet 2 on Bb. The range of
the parts pretty well dictates this; but in the recording
you aren't aware of it at all. The 2nd player perfectly
matches the first player in phrases that trade off.

Achieving a matched sound will require some compromise
from both trumpets; (isn't that what chamber music is about?)
The first player may need to give up on the idea of playing
C trumpet all the time. Even though their opinions don't
really matter :>),  try several combinations of horns and ask
the other members of the quintet what "sounds best".

Get another musician (preferably not another trumpet player)
and ask their opinion of the overall sound of the group.

Finally, repertoire sometimes suggests what instruments to use,
and by this I don't meen the indicated keys on the published
parts. What is the music like? Does it want to be played
on a C or Bb? My own quintet has been doing using cornets
in place of trumpets for some pieces.

-Ellis


On Fri, November 2, 2007 11:13 am, david clough said:
> Hi all:
> I'd like to know your thoughts on the following:  I have a standard brass
> quintet, first trumpet primarily play on C trumpet. Should 2nd trumpet
> play
> Bb trumpet or C? Assume both players are advanced, mature (age and
> musically) competent players on Bb, C, and other keyed trumpets.  If this
> helps any, the music played is somewhat advanced, asking  for Bb, Eb,
> Piccolo and Flugelhorn.  I'd be interested in your opinions, and how your
> formed them.
>
> Best regards,
>
> -Dave
>
>
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-- 
=====
Ellis Workman, ARS KØELW
Grid EN33sx Olmsted County
Rochester, MN US