Frackenpohl

[Tubainsauga]

I have been offered the opportunity to play Frackenpohls concerto/concertino for tuba and strings. My first question is, I was told it was his concerto for tuba and strings, but I can only find his concertino for tuba and strings. Was he just mistaken and it was a concertino or are they 2 different works? Secondly, does anyone have any comments about the piece. I have not seen the part and have never heard it performed. Also, are there any recordings of this work? Thanks for your time.

[MikeMason]

there is only the concertino.Nice piece.

[Gorilla Tuba]

I have a student performing this piece almost every semester. It is a very nice and important part of our repertoire. Range goes to a C above the staff, but it gets there is a very doable manner and it doesn't stay high for long. It has some rhythmic challenges and a lot of syncopation. The students that I have play it tend to have strong "Band Chops" but are relatively new to solo repertoire. Generally College Freshman or Sophomores. It is one that I feel all tuba majors should have performed at sometime during their undergrad program.

Although is can be played by many "musically young" people, it is a good piece of music that I would not hesitate to program on a recital. I have only used the string accompaniment once with this piece, which is a shame. It works well with piano, but a string quartet is such a nice change of pace.

Hopefully this helps.

[MikeMason]

Is it for string quartet or string orchestra? If quartet,is balance an issue? Your experiences?...