BROTHERS IN ARMS AND ART: AN EXPLORATION OF THE HISTORICAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TRUMPET AND PERCUSSION, FROM THE BATTLEFIELD TO THE RECITAL HALL

Abstract

My dissertation recitals focus on music written or arranged for trumpet and percussion instruments. The three programs are conceived in such a way that each recital stands on its own as a successful concert. Each program begins with a piece of early music, the oldest of which is from the 13th century. In an attempt to highlight the rich history of music for the trumpet and kettledrum, I have included fanfare works for each recital. The fanfares I have selected are written by some of the most notable composers in history, such as Richard Wagner, Claudio Monteverdi, and Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach. In contrast to these brilliant fanfares, the first half of each recital includes a song, originally written for voice and piano, arranged for muted trumpet and marimba. It is my hope that the inclusion of these songs in my programs will help expand the recital repertoire for trumpeters to include these and other such works.

The first half of each recital ends with a lengthy modern work for trumpet and percussion. My programs include two premieres, one of which is a work for trumpet and programmed drums composed by myself. The modern works featured on my programs often emphasize the wide range of tonal colors available to both percussionists and trumpeters. Each recital will end with a jazz-oriented piece that will include improvisation.

The diversity presented in these programs is a testament to how deep and broad the relationship is that exists between trumpet and percussion. Another goal in this type of programming, in addition to creating an interesting and enjoyable set of music, is to showcase my own versatility as a performer of a wide variety of genres.