Arthur Pryor: Blue Bells of Scotland for solo trombone and trombone octet

About the Pryor: Blue Bells of Scotland for solo trombone and trombone octet

The Pryor: Blue Bells of Scotland for solo trombone and trombone octet arranged by Aron Simon is a virtuosic adaptation of one of the most famous pieces in the trombone repertoire. Based on the Scottish folk song The Bluebells of Scotland, Arthur Pryor’s arrangement — probably written around 1899 — quickly became a showcase for technical brilliance and lyrical expression. Consequently, this edition expands the accompaniment to a full trombone octet, giving the soloist a rich, resonant foundation.

Instrumentation in this arrangement

The scoring features solo tenor trombone, 7 accompanying tenor trombones, and 1 bass trombone. Moreover, the ensemble replaces the original piano or band accompaniment, offering a warm, blended brass texture. As a result, the solo line stands out clearly while the supporting trombones provide harmonic depth and rhythmic drive.

Musical character and interpretation

The work alternates between lyrical melodies and rapid technical passages. For example, the opening theme can be played with expressive phrasing and rich tone, while the variations demand clean articulation, flexibility, and precision. In addition, the octet accompaniment allows for a fuller, more orchestral sound compared to traditional versions.

Technical and musical aspects

The solo part is highly demanding, making it suitable for advanced players seeking a concert showpiece. In particular, the rapid scales, leaps, and dynamic contrasts challenge both technique and musicality. The ensemble parts, though less technically extreme, require tight coordination and balance to support the soloist effectively.

Availability and audio preview

This Pryor: Blue Bells of Scotland for solo trombone and trombone octet edition is professionally engraved, including full score, solo part, and individual ensemble parts. Available as a digital download or printed edition with priority shipping.

👉 Browse more trombone octet arrangements here
👉 Read more about Pryor on Wikipedia.

🎧 Listen to the MIDI preview on SoundCloud.