Richard Strauss: An Alpine Symphony Suite for 7 trombones, euphonium, tuba, timpani and percussion

About Strauss: An Alpine Symphony Suite for trombone ensemble

The Strauss: An Alpine Symphony Suite for trombone ensemble arranged by Aron Simon condenses Richard Strauss’s monumental tone poem into a powerful brass and percussion showcase. An Alpine Symphony captures the grandeur and drama of a day-long mountain ascent, from dawn to dusk. Consequently, this suite version distills the work’s most memorable moments while maintaining its rich orchestral colour.

Instrumentation in this arrangement

This scoring includes 7 trombones, euphonium, tuba, timpani, and percussion. The expanded low brass section delivers the sweeping themes and majestic climaxes, while the percussion adds texture and rhythmic impact. Moreover, the euphonium and tuba provide additional warmth and depth, enhancing the ensemble’s symphonic presence. As a result, the arrangement conveys both the scale and the intimacy of Strauss’s original.

Musical character and interpretation

The suite preserves the original’s dramatic contrasts, from serene lyrical passages to thunderous climaxes. For example, soft chorale-like sections evoke the peaceful mountain landscape, while bold fanfares and driving rhythms depict the climactic summit scenes. In addition, performers can use the wide dynamic range to create vivid musical storytelling.

Technical and musical aspects

While the arrangement is demanding for all players, it is particularly rewarding for advanced ensembles seeking a symphonic-scale brass work. In particular, precise ensemble coordination and careful balance between sections are crucial to maintain clarity.

Availability and performance video

This Strauss: An Alpine Symphony Suite for trombone ensemble edition is professionally engraved, including full score and parts. Available as a digital download or printed edition with priority shipping.

👉 Browse more trombone ensemble arrangements here
👉 Read more about Strauss on Wikipedia.

🎥 Listen to the Szeged Trombone Ensemble performance on YouTube, recorded for their debut album New Horizons (2016).