An analysis on the use and performance of contemporary avant-garde trombone techniques Çağdaş dönem avangart trombon tekniklerinin kullanımı ve icrası üzerine bir analiz


Tandoğdu Kılıç S.

Rast Müzikoloji Dergisi, vol.10, no.3, pp.395-412, 2022 (Scopus) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 10 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2022
  • Doi Number: 10.12975/rastmd.20221035
  • Journal Name: Rast Müzikoloji Dergisi
  • Journal Indexes: Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.395-412
  • Keywords: history of music, microtone, modern music, multiphonic, trombone
  • Anadolu University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This research focuses on answering the two questions: 1. has the development of techniques led to a change in the role of the trombone in the history of music, as well as in the approach to the trombone, especially by the most prominent performers and composers? And 2.”what are the effects of the innovative style of writing and the different techniques used on the role of the trombone in performance and its future use? This research is a qualitative study about the history of the trombone since the 20th century. Unique and unusual trombone techniques which have been written through innovative works in this period were analysed through document review and data collected by this method. Similar research and sources were found by reviewing the literature on trombone history, contemporary trombone works, and avant-garde trombone techniques. The reliability of the documents was checked and classified. Documents suitable for the functional purposes of the research were included. From the second half of the 20th century onwards, innovative techniques were investigated through documents, sheet music and visuals. These documents were compared and interpreted. As a result of examining the avant-garde music writing and techniques that developed since the 20th century various sources related to the subject were found. The popularity of the trombone, which is the subject of the article, has increased today. The developments of new techniques were discussed through analysing numbers of significant contemporary trombone works. Such developments have posed positive change and development for both performers and composers. The current findings from this research confirm that innovative music has a great contribution on the trombone. The innovative techniques analysed in this article are limited under three categories: “the use of trombone and voice, the use of multi phonics and microtones, and the use of trombone and electronics”. The avant-garde techniques that fall outside this limitation can be considered as a potential research topic for future studies. This article can provide a good starting point for review, discussion, and further research. Considering that the change and development in the field of music in the world continues unceasingly, it is clear that more research and discussion will be needed in the future with new works written within the framework of this change, different techniques and skills applied. Unlike the solo repertoire of many other instruments, the trombone solo repertoire does not include important works by master composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, or Strauss. However, since the 20th century, composers have begun to explore the technical capabilities of the trombone more and more. In addition, the collaboration between composer and performer have become more important. The different and innovative approaches of the performers in their performances encourage the growth of the literature and inspire composers to write new compositions for solo trombone. The reasons for this interest and growth in contemporary trombone literature can be attributed to a number of factors. The most general one is that it has created an atmosphere more conducive to new experiments in musical performance. Another reason is the increasing availability and accessibility of electronic music recording systems, synthesizers and recording equipment. Such developments have been observed to encourage the growth and use of literature and the experimentation with innovative techniques. With the rise and expansion of contemporary music literature a continued developments not only exists in performance, but also in the commissioning, composition and discussion of new music for the trombone. These developments have resulted in a diverse palette from which composers and performers can choose from. Although developments in this field may slow down or change direction in the future, the work done will be permanent. In trombone education, techniques that we call contemporary have begun to be included in the curriculum as part of basic technical knowledge and skills. This development is very important and beneficial for performers and composers. The inclusion of sound, new and unconventional techniques, different effects, theatrical elements, electronic equipment in instrumental music are important for arousing the interest and reaction of the performer, composer and listener. Since the 20th century, trombone has brought to the attention of listeners and composers; more innovative works for trombone have created. Works written with an innovative approach should be accepted as an opportunity to expand musical expression through performance. In this way, new compositions in different styles will continue to emerge, and although some works will be forgotten over time, works with essence and ideas will gain a permanent place in the literature. The performers of these performances will be musicians who have a versatile perception of music and have a wide range of technical and stylistic skills.