Module 23: Solo Repertoire
The Soloist's Stage
Standing in front of an orchestra is a different game. You must project, command the stage, and tell a story. Your sound must reach the back row of the balcony.
Joseph Haydn: Concerto in Eb
The 'Bible' of trumpet concertos. Written in 1796 for the Weidinger Keyed Trumpet. It is classical, elegant, and requires flawless technique.
Key Study: The second movement (Andante) is the ultimate test of lyrical playing and phrasing.
J.N. Hummel: Concerto in E
Technically harder than the Haydn. The third movement Rondo is a technical showcase of double tonguing and arpeggios. It was written in E major, but is typically transposed down a half-step to Eb major and performed on the Eb trumpet, which keeps the fingerings manageable and brightens the timbre.
Alexander Arutiunian: Concerto
A Soviet-Armenian masterpiece. Dark, fiery, and soulful. It captures the 'Gypsy' scales and romantic passion. A favorite for college auditions because it shows off every aspect of playing: Technical, Lyrical, and Heroic.
