Henry Eccles Sonata in G Minor for Solo Bass Trombone, String Quartet, and Harpsichord – Arranged by Aron Simon

About the Composer: Henry Eccles

Henry Eccles (1670–1742) was an English composer and violinist during the Baroque period. He worked in both England and France, serving in the court of King Louis XIV. In 1720, while living in Paris, Eccles published a collection of twelve violin sonatas. The Sonata in G Minor is the most well-known piece from this collection and remains popular among performers today.

About the Sonata

The Sonata in G Minor has been widely adapted for many instruments, including violin, cello, and double bass. This version, arranged by Aron Simon, features the solo part written for bass trombone, accompanied by a string quartet and harpsichord continuo. The arrangement preserves the original Baroque style, with the harpsichord providing harmonic support and the string quartet creating a chamber music texture similar to what audiences would have heard in the early 18th century.

Structure and Movements

The sonata consists of four movements that follow typical Baroque forms:

• Grave – A slow, expressive opening movement

• Courante – A lively dance-like second movement

• Adagio – A lyrical and sustained third movement

• Presto – A fast and energetic final movement

Each movement offers contrast in tempo and character, giving the soloist and ensemble opportunities for musical expression and technical display.

Purpose and Use

This arrangement is designed for advanced trombonists interested in exploring Baroque repertoire. It is ideal for recitals, chamber music concerts, competitions, and educational settings. By combining Eccles’ melodic writing with the rich sound of the bass trombone, this edition provides a historically informed yet fresh interpretation of a classic Baroque work.

Performers and audiences alike can experience the enduring legacy of Henry Eccles through this thoughtfully arranged version for modern instruments.