Star Turn for Trumpet and Piano is part of the tried and tested series for brass. Composed by Gareth Glyn, this series of books is a vibrant and engaging suite of five short pieces designed for brass players at Grades 3–5.

Published by Clifton Edition, this collection is part of a broader series tailored to various brass instruments, each offering a unique musical flavour while maintaining a consistent stylistic identity.

The collection features five contrasting movements—Rumba, Stomp, Soliloquy, Hymn, and Good News—each offering a distinct musical character and technical challenge.

Glyn’s writing is idiomatic and engaging, giving young brass players a chance to shine in recital or exam settings. The piano accompaniment is supportive yet musically rich, enhancing the soloist’s performance without overpowering it.

As part of a broader series for various brass instruments, this volume  maintains the same high standard of musicality and educational value.

Each piece explores a distinct mood and rhythmic character, giving performers a chance to showcase both technical skill and expressive nuance.

Contents:

Rumba opens the set with Latin flair, featuring syncopated rhythms and playful melodic lines. It’s a spirited introduction that immediately grabs attention.

Stomp is rhythmically driven and percussive, with a strong pulse and bold articulation. It’s a great vehicle for dynamic contrast and rhythmic precision.

Soliloquy shifts the mood, inviting expressive phrasing and lyrical playing. Soliloquy shifts the tone dramatically, offering a lyrical and introspective moment. This movement allows the performer to explore phrasing and tone color, making it a standout for musical sensitivity.

Hymn provides a moment of calm, emphasizing tone quality and breath control. Hymn brings a sense of calm and reverence, with sustained lines and rich harmonies. It’s ideal for developing breath control and legato playing.

Good News, the final piece in the set, wraps up the set with an upbeat, celebratory feel that showcases agility and musical confidence. Good News closes the suite on an uplifting note, with bright motifs and a celebratory feel. It’s rhythmically buoyant and melodically satisfying, leaving a lasting impression.

Piano Accompaniment: The piano part is thoughtfully crafted, supporting the soloist without overshadowing them. It adds harmonic depth and rhythmic stability, enhancing the character of each movement. The interplay between the piano and Bb Bass is well-balanced, making the pieces suitable for recital performance or examination settings.

Educational Value: This suite is particularly effective as a teaching tool. The variety of styles encourages students to develop versatility, while the moderate technical demands make it accessible without being simplistic. The pieces are short enough to maintain focus but rich enough to challenge interpretation and technique.

Performance Appeal: Whether used in lessons, exams, or concerts, Star Turn offers performers a chance to shine—hence the title. Each movement feels like a miniature spotlight moment, allowing the player to explore different facets of musical expression.

The suite’s diversity makes it ideal for showcasing a young musician’s range and personality.

Conclusion

Gareth Glyn’s Star Turn series of books are a delightful addition to the brass repertoire.

It’s musically rewarding, pedagogically sound, and stylistically varied. For Trumpet players, this suite offers both challenge and charm, making it a valuable resource for students and teachers alike.

Whether used for performance or study, Star Turn is a rewarding addition to the repertoire—playful, expressive, and thoughtfully crafted for emerging musicians.

Previously Published by Spartan Press
Former catalogue number: SP351