Concerto by Launy Grøndahl

• Solo Title: Concerto
• Composer and Arranger: Launy Grøndahl (1886-1960)
• Publisher Code: Samfundet, ED23
• Date Published: 1924
• Clef: Bass and Tenor
• Purchase Link: Sheet Music Plus
• Recording: Romantic Trombone Concertos, Jesper Juul, Dacapo

Grøndahl’s Concerto for Trombone is a staple in trombone literature. With the soloist starting in the second measure, the trombone showcases a wide range of sound, texture, drama, and versatility that never is outdated. The first movement begins in f minor then bounces through various major and minor keys. The opening motif is sprinkled throughout the first movement to challenge the soloist to maintain the same intensity whenever that motif is played. The second movement is rich with dramatic melodies that will test the soloist’s endurance. For the third movement, in addition to endurance, the soloist will have to maintain steady counting through many complex and syncopated rhythms.

Movements and Tempo Markings				Duration
I. Moderato assai ma molto maestoso (q=80)				5’
II. “Quasi una Leggenda” Andante, grave (e=80) Mosso (dotted q=46)				6'
III. “Finale” Andante, grave (e=80) Mosso (dotted q=46)				5'
Organization’s Class and Grade Levels		FMEA	ISSMA	ITA	NYSSMA	OMEA	PMEA	UIL
(What is This?)		5 / 6 / 7 [1]	Yes	5	6	A	NL	1
Grading Points Scale		Level	Total Points	Range	Rhythm	Tempo	Duration	Bonus
(What is This?)		-	-	Bb1 to C5 [2]	16th	72 bpm	16'	See Footnote [3]
		5 (4.7)	23.5	3.5	4	2	10	4

1. Level 5 is “Any ONE movement.” Level 6 is “Movements 1&2 OR Movements 2&3.” Level 7 is “All Three Movements.”
2. It is common practice for more advanced soloists to take certain elements of this work up an octave to where range increases to Db5 and Eb5. Since the original intention of the composition did not include these optional notes, this annotation will not include common performance practices.
3. F-attachment (1), Clef Changes (1), Key Signature (1), Syncopation (1)