Drei Equali

An equale is a piece for equal voices or instruments. In the 18th century the equale became established as a generic term for short, chordal pieces for trombone quartet. Old church music regulations from Linz show that such pieces were used at funeral services in Austria. The performance of such pieces from towers on All Souls’ Day and on the previous evening is associated with the funeral service. The theological meaning of the trombone as a symbol of divine presence, the voice of the angels and instrument of judgment is thereby underscored.

Ludwig van Beethoven’s three Equali for four trombones of (“Drei Equales”, WoO 30), was written for performance in Linz Cathedral on All Souls’ Day in 1812. Two of them were later performed, with the addition by Ignaz von Seyfried of words from the Miserere, at Beethoven’s own funeral in 1827.

The following parts are provided

• Part 1 – Alto Trombone, Trombone (Bass Clef), Trombone (Tenor Clef)
• Part 2 – Alto Trombone, Trombone (Bass Clef)
• Part 3 – Trombone (Bass Clef)
• Part 4 – Trombone (Bass Clef)