Berceuse from Jocelyn, Trombone solo, Brass Quintet, Arr. L. Killian

This is one of the most beautiful and haunting operatic arias of all time, arranged here for solo trombone, and small brass ensemble. With a little swopping around of parts, this arrangement also works well for euphonium or baritone taking on the solo part. The opera Jocelyn, first performed in Paris in 1888, is based upon an earthly love which tempts Jocelyn, a brother at a seminary. The "Berceuse" from it, probably Godard's best-known composition, is sung by Jocelyn as he tries to lull one of his companions to sleep. It became so popular that it has been arranged for practically every combination of instruments.
Benjamin Godard (1849-1895) was a French violinist and composer best known for his opera Jocelyn. Godard composed eight operas, five symphonies, two piano and two violin concertos, string quartets, sonatas for violin and piano, piano pieces and etudes, and more than a hundred songs.