Geological Survey - Trombone Ensemble

20th Century. Jazz. Composed for Emory Remington and the Eastman Trombone Choir in the 1960's, this work uses stylistic elements from the rock and jazz idioms, elements that were not typically found in the traditional "legit" music of the time. Remington embraced the work in accordance with his belief that his students should be capable of meeting every type of performance demand. This work was recorded by the Eastman Trombone Choir on their landmark 1971 LP, The Eastman Trombone Choir, and later re-released on the 1996 CD The Legacy of Emory Remington and the Eastman Trombone Choir. The performance is directed by Rayburn Wright, then director of Jazz Studies at the Eastman School.

As the title suggests, this work is an exploration of some of the sounds that were emerging in rock music. Having more of a Funk character, no one will ever confuse this work with anything from Buddy Holly or The Beatles. The funk and fusion sounds of Chicago or Earth, Wind & Fire might make a better comparison. The elements are similar, including (especially) rhythms, open "power chord" harmonies and an agressive tempo.

Geological Survey is set for twelve trombones in three separate TTTB choirs. Straight mutes are required.