Publications

The Singing Trombone
Listen to a sample of this disc!

Released in 2000, The Singing Trombone consists of twenty-one orchestral excerpts, twelve Bordogni vocalises, and three excerpts from the literature of other instruments. The disc is Jay Friedman's answer to the many trombonists who have asked him, "What is it supposed to sound like in my practice room?" Friedman plays without accompaniment so that the every nuance of the trombone can be heard without interference. The liner notes include an extensive discussion of the philosophy behind Friedman's playing and teaching.

Concert Works and Orchestral Excerpts
Listen to a sample of this disc!

Concert Works and Orchestral Excerpts was recorded in 1971 by the legendary low brass section of Jay Friedman, James Gilbertsen, Frank Crisafulli, Edward Kleinhammer, and Arnold Jacobs. Rereleased on CD in 2002, this disc is an excellent example of how an orchestral low brass section can sound. The disc contains fifteen orchestral excerpts and four pieces for low brass ensemble.

Amazing Grace
Traditional, arr. Jay Friedman
(For 12 trombones)

Symphony no. 6, mvt. 1
Antonin Dvorak, arr. Jay Friedman
(For 12 trombones)

Suite from "The Perfect Fool"
Gustav Holst, arr Jay Friedman
(For large brass ensemble)

Jay Friedman's arranging skills are showcased in this exciting three-movement work for large brass ensemble. Although technically difficult in some parts, none of it is beyond the ability of a competent college-level player.

The Perfect Fool
Gustav Holst, arr. Jay Friedman
(For 12 trombones)

Jay Friedman arranged this virtuosic showpiece for a command performance at the 1991 ITW in Kalamazoo, MI. Featuring portions of the first and final movements of the ballet suite, this score requires advanced players on all parts. The exciting 7/8 sections offer special ensemble challenges.

Solo from Symphony No. 3
Gustav Mahler, arr. Jay Friedman
(For solo trombone and 11 trombones)

Andante and Chorale from Symphony No. 5
Felix Mendelssohn, arr. Jay Friedman
(For 12 trombones)

Scherzo from Symphony No. 5
Felix Mendelssohn, arr. Jay Friedman
(For 12 trombones)

En Saga
Jean Sibelius, arr. Jay Friedman
(For 8 trombones)

Swan of Tuonela
Jean Sibelius, arr. Jay Friedman
(For solo trombone and 12 trombones)

Alpine Symphony
Richard Strauss, arr. Jay Friedman
(For large brass ensemble)

Jay Friedman's dynamic arrangement of Strauss' Alpine Symphony is a major addition to the repertoire. With a duration of 30-35 minutes, it is an excellent work to place on the second half of a brass concert. It is scored for large brass ensemble consisting of 6 tpts, 6 hns, 4 trbns, euph, 2 tubas, tym, 4 perc, organ. The 6th tpt. has a major part doubling flugelhorn.

A Strauss Fanfare
Richard Strauss, arr. Jay Friedman
(For large brass ensemble)

The Strauss Fanfare begins with the opening of Also Sprach Zarathustra, goes to the summit section of the Alpine Symphony and concludes with the coda of Symphonie Domestica. It provides an exciting conclusion to one of the most thrilling works in the symphonic repertoire. The Alpine Symphony is available on a rental only basis through this website.

Elsa's Procession to the Cathedral
Richard Wagner, arr. Jay Friedman
(For large brass ensemble)

Gathering of the Armies from "Lohengrin"
Richard Wagner, arr. Jay Friedman
(For large brass ensemble)

This exciting excerpt from Lohengrin is uniquely arranged by Jay Friedman, principal trombonist of the Chicago Symphony. The off-stage presentation of both trumpet and trombone sections for the opening makes the piece a unique way to open a concert. The climactic buildup from off-stage trumpet calls to a hair-raising final section makes this one of THE most exciting pieces in the repertoire.

Prelude from Die Meistersingers, Act III
Richard Wagner, arr. Jay Friedman
(For 4 trombones)

This quartet is filled with the patented Jay Friedman editing of dynamic and stylistic subtleties. In addition to its place in the quartet repertoire, it lends itself to part-doubling, making it an effective work for trombone choir.

Symphonic Synthesis of Die Walkure
Richard Wagner, arr. Jay Friedman
(For 8 trombones)

This 20-minute arrangement synthesizes the wide array of Wagner music in a most challenging way. Designed as a study in the Wagner style, Friedman has created a masterwork in the repertoire.

JayFriedman.net is the official website of
the Chicago Symphony's principal trombonist.