Michael Praetorius: Dances from Terpsichore – for 8 trombones & percussion

About the Praetorius: Dances from Terpsichore for trombone octet and percussion

The Praetorius: Dances from Terpsichore for trombone octet and percussion arranged by Aron Simon presents three lively dance tunes from Michael Praetorius’s celebrated 1612 collection Terpsichore. This monumental compendium contains over 300 instrumental dances from the early Baroque period, many of which were inspired by French courtly traditions. Consequently, this arrangement captures the festive, rhythmic spirit of the originals while giving them a rich, modern brass sonority.

Instrumentation in this trombone octet arrangement

The scoring includes alto trombone, 5 tenor trombones, 2 bass trombones, 2 tenor drums, and whip. Moreover, the percussion parts add energy and drive, enhancing the rhythmic pulse of the dances. As a result, the combination of historical material with the full resonance of trombones creates a vivid and engaging performance experience.

Musical character and interpretation

Each dance has its own unique rhythmic profile and character. For example, some sections are light and sprightly, while others move with a stately, ceremonial quality. In addition, the interplay between percussion and brass invites performers to explore contrasts in articulation, dynamics, and phrasing, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish.

Technical and musical aspects

The arrangement is accessible to intermediate and advanced players, offering moderate technical demands while focusing on ensemble cohesion and stylistic interpretation. In particular, precise rhythmic coordination between trombones and percussion is essential for capturing the authentic dance feel.

Availability and performance video

This Praetorius: Dances from Terpsichore for trombone octet and percussion edition is professionally engraved, including full score and parts. Available as a digital download or printed edition with priority shipping.

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

🎥 Watch the Szeged Trombone Ensemble performance on YouTube.