Bluebells of Scotland
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Bluebells of Scotland is a traditional Scottish folksong arranged by Arthur Pryor for trombone with potential orchestra accompaniment. Although the exact date is disputed due to some naming questions, it is generally accepted that Pryor arranged the piece in 1899. Since then, it has become famous around the world as an incredibly difficult piece for trombonists to play. Bluebells is highly respected amongst colleges and is a solid choice for an audition piece.
Techniquewise, the piece allows the trombonist to show off his or her flowing legato while at the same time (in different places, naturally) giving the trombonist some difficult jumps and leaps. The sheer speed and volume of notes present also poses a significant challenge. It is in theme and variation form, with the piece opening with a 24 bar intro. It then proceeds to the theme, in a slow, flowing manner. It then moves to the allegro section, in which the variations begin. Variation one involves triplets, while variation two involves syncopated sixteenth-eighth note rythms.The cadenza that follows demonstrates the performers range; jumping from a high C to a low pedal G, for example. The vivace finale brings all these techniques into one, where the trombonist mush exhibit advanced range, legato, double tonguing and flexibility. Thus, the piece is limited to all but the best trombonists, although there have indeed been numerous recordings of the piece throughout the ages, by such famed players as Joseph Alessi and Christian Lindberg.
Bluebells of Scotland is often likened to be the trombone and euphonium equivalent (in terms of required mastery of the instrument) to the Carnival of Venice for trumpet and cornet by Jean-Baptiste Arban.
