November 10, 2026
By Andrew Battaglia
On October 29, the UT Trombone Choir, under the direction of Dr. Nathaniel Brickens, professor of trombone, took the stage of Bates Recital Hall for a Halloween-themed concert. Dressed in costumes ranging from superheroes and villains to clerics, the ensemble of twenty-one trombonists performed six festive works to capture the mystical, monstrous, and even chiaroscuro shades of Halloween.
The program opened with Leviathan by Jack Wilds, which featured the sonorous and deeply choral nature of the ensemble. Arranged in a semi-circle across the stage, the trombonists passed intense musical phrases between sections, evoking the battle of sea creatures suggested by the work’s title.
A priestly Nathaniel Brickens walks onto the stage
The second work, Ignis Fatuus by James Naigus, highlighted the ensemble’s remarkable blend. The Latin title, meaning “foolish fire,” refers to a mysterious, flickering light. Musically, the work juxtaposes a lyrical chorale with a driving underlying rhythm, creating an intriguing contrast between serenity and momentum.
Next on the program was James M. David’s Neoclassical Suite, featuring three movements: Fanfare en Quatre, Les sons et les parfums, and Marche Octatonique. The work drew inspiration from several prominent twentieth-century composers and styles. The opening movement evoked a Copland-esque fanfare, while the second explored the sounds and fragrances of the night in a texture reminiscent of Debussy. The final movement, an octatonic march, incorporated the rhythmic gestures of Bartók and the harmonies of Hindemith.
Some of the elaborate Halloween costumes worn by students
Following intermission, Patrick Hughes, associate professor of horn, was welcomed to the stage to introduce his composition From Hildegard. Originally written for horn choir, the work is based on chants composed by Hildegard of Bingen. Hughes rearranged the work for trombone choir and performed as the horn soloist.
Associate professor of horn Patrick Hughes dressed as a monk while performing
The performance featured antiphonal trombone choirs positioned in the back of Bates Recital Hall and a choir accompanying Hughes onstage. The work further showcased the choir’s lyrical capabilities, expanding the breadth and color of its sound throughout the hall.
The next selection, Scherzo Funebre by Derek Bourgeois, continued to demonstrate the
ensemble’s impressive range and organ-like sonority.
The concert concluded with Night Suite from Circadian Suite by Brad Edwards. The work’s virtuosic passages were passed between ensemble members seated across the room from one another, making for a daring and impressive display of musical coordination. The piece’s whimsical character was further enhanced by the performers’ festive costumes, bring the Halloween program to a spirited close.
Some of the elaborate Halloween costumes worn by students
When asked about the tradition of the Halloween concert, Dr. Brickens explained, “This is the second time the ensemble has performed in costume, and the last time was four years ago.”
Brickens also discussed what makes the trombone choir a unique ensemble. “Trombones in traditional ensembles don’t get to play the melody that often. Trombone choir allows the performers the chance to play the melody and technical passages often.”
Nathaniel Brickens conducts the Trombone Choir
Through this diverse program spanning lyrical chorales, dramatic fanfares, virtuosic riffs, and antiphonal soundscapes, the UT Trombone Choir demonstrated the expressive versatility of the trombone. Combined with the costumes and Halloween spirit, the concert offered an entertaining display of bold musicality and the possibilities of the trombone.