Trombone Concerto (Shilkret)

The Trombone Concerto by Nathaniel Shilkret is a significant, though less frequently performed, work in the repertoire for solo trombone and orchestra. Composed in 1942-1945, it was commissioned by and dedicated to the celebrated trombonist Tommy Dorsey. The concerto is known for its lyrical melodies and its blend of classical and popular music influences, reflecting Shilkret's diverse background in both concert music and the commercial music industry, including his extensive work in film. The concerto offers a range of challenges and showcases the trombone's expressive capabilities. Its relative obscurity compared to other trombone concertos makes it a notable piece for trombonists seeking to explore less common works. Shilkret’s compositional style is characterized by strong harmonic language and idiomatic writing for the instrument.