Brass Series Glissato & Giuseppe Verdi 
Oberto, Conte di San Bonifacio – Brass Quintet (score) 
Overture

‘Oberto, Conte di San Bonifacio’ Overture: A Brass Quintet Journey with Enrico Zullino

Explore the origins of Giuseppe Verdi’s operatic genius with Enrico Zullino’s exquisite transcription of the overture to ‘Oberto, Conte di San Bonifacio’ for brass quintet. This piece, marking Verdi’s first foray into the world of opera, is reimagined for brass in a way that captures the youthful energy and emotional depth of the original composition. Perfect for intermediate-level ensembles, Zullino’s arrangement offers a unique opportunity to delve into the early works of one of opera’s greatest composers, presenting both a challenge and a delight to performers and audiences alike.


Arrangement Details:

• Instrumentation: Scored for B♭ Trumpets 1-2, French Horn in F, Trombone, and Tuba, this arrangement skillfully adapts Verdi’s orchestral textures to the brass quintet format, maintaining the overture’s dramatic intensity and lyrical passages. The choice of instruments ensures a full, resonant sound that is both powerful and nuanced, ideal for conveying the operatic scope of Verdi’s music.


• Level: Intermediate. Designed to be accessible yet challenging for intermediate-level musicians, this transcription focuses on developing ensemble cohesion, dynamic control, and expressive phrasing. It serves as an excellent stepping stone for brass players looking to explore more complex literature and improve their musicality.


• Score: The e-book includes a comprehensive score, clearly notated and thoughtfully prepared to facilitate an engaging and efficient rehearsal process. Musicians can easily navigate the arrangement, focusing on the interpretive aspects of the performance and mastering the nuances of Verdi’s early operatic style.

Exclusive Online Resources:

A beautifully crafted audio demo is available at www.glissato.it, providing a valuable reference for tempo, dynamics, and stylistic interpretation. This resource is crucial for ensembles aiming to achieve a polished and authentic rendition of the overture, allowing musicians to hear the piece in its entirety and adjust their performance accordingly.


Dive into Verdi’s Operatic Beginnings:

Enrico Zullino’s arrangement of ‘Oberto, Conte di San Bonifacio’ offers brass quintets a rare glimpse into the early compositional style of Giuseppe Verdi. This piece not only enriches the brass repertoire with the depth and drama of Italian opera but also provides an engaging musical experience that challenges and inspires. Whether preparing for a performance, competition, or simply exploring the breadth of brass ensemble literature, this transcription promises to be a rewarding journey into the heart of Verdi’s operatic legacy.