SLIPPERY TRAPEZE
for wind trio
 
A Witty and Imaginative Contemporary Work for Wind Trio
Slippery Trapeze (2024) is a vivid 10‑minute, five‑movement wind trio for clarinet, alto saxophone, and bassoon. Using the mixed‑reed trio’s unusual color palette to create quick‑changing scenes, playful rhythmic interplay, and expressive contrasts, this composition offers a fresh, theatrical addition to the modern wind trio repertoire.
Listen to the Recording and Find More Information Here
 
About the Piece
Each movement of this wind trio offers a vivid backstage glimpse into circus life, blending humor, character, and theatrical timing to bring its miniature narratives to life.
Level: Ideal for professional clarinetists, saxophonists, and bassoonists; also suitable for advanced students exploring character pieces, articulation, and ensemble precision.
Programming: Works well in contemporary chamber concerts, mixed‑reed recitals, and programs featuring theatrical or narrative‑driven works.
Style: Five short, contrasting movements with humorous, expressive, and scene‑based writing; optional spoken text may be announced by the players.
Venue Fit: Effective in intimate and medium‑sized halls where color, detail, and theatrical nuance can be clearly appreciated.
 
Program Notes
Slippery Trapeze is a witty composition for a wind trio consisting of clarinet, alto saxophone, and bassoon. It portrays situations that one usually finds in the circus, primarily from a backstage perspective.
The piece features five movements, starting with Impatient Overture. This is followed by Shakey Rope, a tale of an acrobat who spots his mother‑in‑law from above. Next is Little Sneaky Waltz, which appears unexpectedly. Desolate Arena presents a lonely clown finding solace in the shadows of an empty tent, and the performance concludes with Hungry Band, a lively piece about a band racing to finish their set before they can eat.
The five movements are accompanied by text that can be announced beforehand by the players, if desired.
 
Click HERE to listen to the work
 
Specifications
Duration: 10 minutes
Year Composed: 2024
Instrumentation: Wind Trio (Clarinet in Bb, Alto Saxophone, and Bassoon)
 
Product Information
Availability: Instant PDF Download (Score and Parts)
Return Policy: Digital downloads are not eligible for returns.
Condition: New 1st Edition digital score