Sail to the Moon

This arrangement continues the Radiohead Jazz Project and adds another wonderful talent to the list of outstanding RJP writers. Omar Thomas has arranged this emotional heavy-rock ballad, focusing on the solo voice of the trombone. There is also solo space for piano. There are flute, clarinet and bass clarinet doubles. This piece has limited brass ranges (written B in the trumpet). 5-4-4-4

Like many people around the world, I, too, am a fan of Radiohead. Their catalogue includes a number of huge, instantly-recognizable classics. One of my favorite songs of theirs that I always felt was a bit overlooked was the eerie "Sail to the Moon", recorded on their 'Hail to the Thief' album. I also felt the song was way too short, so with this arrangement I spend some time further exploring the landscape which they've created on the original track. This arrangement serves as a vehicle for the lead trombone, featuring both written-out solo melodies and ample space for improvisation.