The Preparation and Performance of Selected Schubert Songs for Bass Trombone and Piano

Abstract

This document will examine how Schubert's songs can be used to increase the existing bass trombone solo literature. The primary focus is on the process of selecting, organizing, and arranging songs for the purpose of creating an original instrumental performance edition. The document will discuss elements that influence individual song selection, compositional attributes of the music, the drama represented through the text, and the boundaries these expressive components impose on the arranging process. The arranging process is discussed for nine individual songs including compositional elements which might influence the ordering of songs in a specific performance. A brief historic discussion overviews the role of the bass trombone in early nineteenth-century classical music, Schubert's life in regards to his contribution to song literature, and the influence of politics and economics during Schubert's life. An extensive Appendices contains a recommended list of Schubert lieder recordings, detailed text translations, bass trombone solo parts and full piano scores for all nine songs arranged for this document.