Trombone Concerto

Philip Sparke's Trombone Concerto was written for Olaf Ott, principal trombonist with the Berlin Philharmonic. The concerto is in traditional three-movement form and the whole work could be seen as a dramatic soliloquy for the soloist, who starts in earnest and agitated mood but, as the concerto progresses, is able to take a more optimistic tone before ending the work with what could be called a “symphonic samba.”

Movement 1 begins darkly until the solo part introduces a more positive theme - only to be “overruled” by a faster, troubled accompaniment; the movement closes over a sombre drum ostinato. Movement 2 opens with a heartfelt “plea” in the accompaniment that is echoed by the soloist, who then plays a simple chorale melody introducing a delicate central section. A chant-like tune leads to a joyous climax, heralding a return of the opening material. Movement 3 casts all troubles aside in a joyful samba - a jazz-influenced central tune explores the higher ranges of the trombone before the samba rhythms set up a “contest” between trombone and piano. The soloist is the eventual “winner” (of course) and celebrates by reintroducing the samba melody before bringing the work to a virtuosic close.