The orchestration of bars 61 to 66 has already been dealt with on the previous page. In this “blank,” then, I shall ask the reader's attention to the general question of the laying-out of brass parts throughout the work. I have just mentioned this point in connection with the second trombone part beginning at bar 60. But the whole work should be examined with the special object of ascertaining what notes have been added to the brass-parts, and what omitted from them. In doing this, it is as well to compare the brass both with the organ and with the chorus. When he has done this, the reader can compare the brass with the strings and wood-wind; but especially with the former, for the purpose of seeing exactly how and where the thickening of the brass-parts gives the strings freedom elsewhere.
On the question of brute-force, of which the brass undoubtedly has its share, one may admit that the work is not underscored. But of course the special character of a Te Deum calls for this fullness. On the other hand, this particular work does not give the orchestrator much opportunity for variety in the treatment of the brass. Even if it had, the range of variety to be obtained from this department is not great. Differences in dynamic marking, alterations of pitch within a somewhat narrow compass, and changes from unison to harmony or from thin to full harmony, are the orchestrator's best friends.
The Te Deum is 196 bars long, without the Festival Ending; and the following list gives the number of bars in which the brass is playing. The total, 142, is above the average. But, here again, the jubilant nature of the work must be taken into account. Furthermore, of the 142 bars, 51 are marked mp or lower. And it must be remembered that a third of the total number of bars are horn-bars. It is of course only an accident, due to the composition itself, that neither the trumpets nor the trombones happen to have been used alone.
Brass Bars Heavy brass and horns 57 (plus 16 in the Festival Ending) Horns alone 49 Heavy brass without horns 20 Horns and trombones 13 Horns and trumpets 3 Trumpets alone Trombones alone
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