Chorale and Alleluia
For 8-Part Trombone Ensemble
By Howard Hanson, arr. by Noel A. Freeman
Chorale and Alleluia was completed in January, 1954, and was Howard Hanson’s first work for symphonic band. It was given its première on February 26, 1954 at the convention of the American Bandmasters Association at West point with Colonel William Santelmann, leader of the U.S. Marine Band, conducting.
The composition opens with a fine flowing Chorale. Soon the joyous Alleluia theme appears and is much in evidence throughout. A bold statement of the new melody makes its appearance in combination with the above themes. The effect is one of cathedral bells, religious exaltation, solemnity, and dignity.
The music is impressive, straightforward, and pleasingly non-dissonant, and its resonance and sonority are ideally suited to the medium of the modern symphonic band. Arranger Noel A. Freeman has taken advantage of the rich and magnificent character of this essential work in adapting it in this setting for eight trombones.
Instrumentation: 6 Tenor Trombones (1 alto, opt.), 2 Bass Trombones
Performance Time: 5:45
Range: Tenor: A2 - C5, Bass: G1 - F#3
