American trombone virtuoso, Arthur Pryor, was not only a celebrated band leader during his time, but the formidable soloist and principal trombone of the world renowned Sousa Band, known for his beautiful tone, expressive style and phenomenal tonguing ability alongside the technical skill to play almost anything. One of the pitfalls of being a prodigious trombonist in the late 1880s though, was how little repertoire there was featuring the trombone.
Slide trombones were considered somewhat of a novelty at the time, reserved for use within some symphonic ensembles but not usually found in the military bands which were so popular at the time. This did not deter the immensely talented young Arthur, who soon mastered the instrument and at the age of 15 held the principal trombonist seat of the Pryor band, run by his father, before being head-hunted by John Philip Sousa to replace the lead trombonist in his own band, on account of his far superior technique.
During his time with the Sousa Band, Pryor proved himself to be not only an electrifying trombonist, but a prolific and talented composer. Perhaps one of his best-known works today is his Thoughts of Love for solo trombone and band, written for the 1893 World Columbian Exposition in Chicago, where he was to make his debut as soloist.
This wonderful waltz perfectly showcases the trombone, and the skill of the player. With its lyrical tunes, firework flourishes, mammoth range and showy cadenza, what more could you want?!
Arranged and performed by our very own Principal Trombone, Donal Bannister, and conducted by Ed Hodgson, hear the 麻豆社 NOW brass perform it here.
Programme note 漏 Amy Campbell