Nocturne
for trombone and string orchestra
The Nocturne for alto (or tenor) trombone and strings is part of a series of pieces for each of the brass instruments: Postcards (solo), 3 Miniatures (with piano), Nocturne (with strings) and Concerto (with full orchestra). As with the other Nocturnes, this Trombone Nocturne begins with the trombone alone. After a lyrical and plaintive opening theme the strings enter with their own motive. Both of these motifs permeate the piece as a whole, but are interupted by an energetic allegro in 12/8, which again leads to the opening theme. The work ends on a reflective note. The Nocturne was written for Branimir Slokar for a concert celebrating his 50th birthday.