Four Trumpet Tunes

New trumpet tunes are always welcome. While it may sometimes be difficult to get brides to try something “off the beaten path”, you might find a winner in this collection. The first trumpet tune,based in C Major, is well crafted and rhythmically interesting, using one of Miller’s signature rhythmic ideas: 7/8 meter alternating with common time. Harmonically tonal, one will find a few added tones to the first tune to add a little spice. The first tune drives right to the end. The registration calls for a solo trumpet or en chamade on the Positive but, if needed, this can be changed around without too much trouble. The second tune, in D Major, alternates 3/8 and 4/4 meter. This second tune has a gallop in the middle, harking back to some of the rhythmic figures found in 19th-century overtures. The third trumpet tune uses E-flat Major as its key and is the shortest piece in the collection. The last tune in F Major uses a simple ABA form, with the 7/8 meter appearing in the B section. Technically, these pieces are of medium difficulty, and the first is rather fun to play.
Richard Konzen, AAM Journal
January 2005