Mozart Requiem

Preparing the Mozart Requiem for Trombone Auditions

One of the most commonly found excerpts in a trombone audition is the Mozart Requiem. The tenor trombone solo, namely the second trombone solo from the Mozart Requiem, is indeed one of the most important pieces in trombone repertoire. Let's dive into it in detail, focusing on how to prepare, practice, and think musically about this excerpt.

First Phrase

First, let's address the first phrase:

• There is a measure (bar) of rest before it.
• Ensure the next phrase is in the same tempo.
• Many auditions are ruined because candidates fail to keep tempo, counting: "1, 2, 3, 1." This happens more often than you might think.

Best Practices:

• Use a metronome. Check to ensure the first couple of bars maintain the same tempo.
• Count that bar of rest in the correct tempo and enter at the same tempo as the beginning. This detail is perhaps the most critical piece of information in this entire video.

Articulation:

For me, it's vital that:

• The articulation is clear.
• We don't lose the musical line.

While it might be tempting to overdo the articulation, we must remember:

• It's classical music, not romantic.
• We should maintain a legato air while articulating clearly.

Tempo:

• My chosen tempo is rather quick, with a feeling of being in two.
• Some orchestras may prefer a slower interpretation; you must be flexible and adapt accordingly.
• If playing slower in four, ensure that your breath and emphasis align with the musical phrase.

Next Phrase

Now, let's move on to the next phrase:

• This section often causes debate about whether to play legato or detached.
• I always opt for a legato, adhering to what I call natural slurs:
  • Natural slurs cross the harmonics where no tongue is needed.
  • Tonguing is used when crossing the harmonic.

Position Choices:

• I'm utilizing alternative positions to facilitate natural slurs across the harmonics (for example, B flat in fifth, D in fourth, F in fourth).

Challenges Under Pressure:

• The distance between an F and an A flat (moving from first to third or from fourth to third) can feel significant.
• The movement between these notes can be tight, assisting with embouchure adjustments.

Airstream and Flexibility

While playing, it's crucial to maintain:

• A smooth and even airstream.
• Accuracy with the slide, ensuring it is paired with smooth air.

Considerations for Various Styles:

• Some orchestras may prefer that the legato includes tongue articulation, while I prefer a smoother approach. Always be prepared for all styles.

Vibrato

• Vibrato is a no-no in the Mozart Requiem.
• If you've been practicing with vibrato in your Bordonis, eliminate it when performing the Mozart Requiem; it is not stylistically appropriate.

Musical Structure

Understanding the musical structure is vital:

• There's a recurring figure that appears throughout Mozart.
• Recognize the musicality required to express the excerpts effectively.

Intensity and Expression:

• Grow in intensity while keeping the quarters (crotchets) long.
• Tastefully back away as you approach the A flat, but don't overdo it. Remember, this is classical music, tone down the romantic expressiveness.

Summary

To sum up how to approach the Mozart Requiem:

1. Technical Issues:

   • If experiencing any difficulties, it's best to work on these separately from the excerpt.
   • Refer to specific coaching videos for articulation and legato. Return to etudes to ensure your technique is flawless.

2. Audition Imperatives:

   • Keeping a consistent tempo between the first and second phrases is key, audition panels will be checking that.
   • Use your natural legato and alternative positions where needed, ensuring a smooth flow throughout.

3. Highlighting Harmony:

   • Identify important harmonic notes in the Mozart Requiem and subtly highlight them to aid listener understanding, but don't overdo it, remember, it's Mozart, not Rachmaninoff.

By embodying these practices, you will be better prepared to tackle the nuances of this essential trombone excerpt!