[Trombone-l] trombones and choral music

[Dan Thornton]

Thanks to all who responded to my question.

Thanks for sharing that there are some groups today who are still using the
trombones to supplement choral parts.  Possibly some educating of conductors
would result in not only additional play time for us, but also in an
improved (and more authentic to the original) performance.

It was enlightening to understand that Schubert used trombones extensively
in other works, but chose not to do so in his Mass in G. 

Thanks for the clarification that the trombones did not "travel" with the
chorus, separate from the orchestra.  And how interesting that there were
times when the trombones played written parts (distinct from chorus) and
also would double chorus parts in the same piece, as the conductor pleased.

In the world premiere of "An Alaskan Symphony" this past weekend, I was
quite pleased with the trombone 1 part. Early in the compositional process,
I had mentioned to the composer about the history of trombones supplementing
the choral lines. It was fulfilling to see the finished product with the
trombone doubling several critical tenor parts.  The director saw the
importance of those lines and called for more volume when I played them. 

This list is very helpful to me.  Thanks to all who generously share your
time and insights.

Dan