INDEFINITE SOUNDSCAPES
2024
MIXED* PERCUSSION QUARTET
~7 minutes
* instruments include:
timbales, suspended cymbal, maracas, wood blocks, rainstick, flexatone, temple blocks, bongos, tam-tam, congas, thundersheet, vibraslap
Program Notes:
The idea behind this work is the embodiment of emotions. Each miniature represents a different feeling and encapsulates the core of that sensation.
1. Curious
In the first movement, the performers act as if they have never seen their instruments before and experimentation ensues. Every instrument is played and given the proper time to shine, culminating in a little jingle once everyone has introduced their sounds.
2. Insistent
After discovering new sounds, the next logical step is to bang on the instruments as much as possible. There is constant rhythmic drive throughout this movement and shifting meters ensure that the momentum not only is constant, but also syncopated and off-kilter. It ends with the performers “messing up” and expressing frustration.
4. Tranquil
Following the discomfort of the last movement, a relaxed, calming atmosphere emerges. The tam-tam and thundersheet act as a sound basin, creating a whispering effect that echoes throughout the movement. The rainstick is the central focus of the movement, gently tilting back and forth in a listless manner. The congas sneak in halfway through, adding more color and rhythmic interest. Parts gradually fade out and the movement ends with the whispering tam-tam.
3. Anxious
The tension caused by the “mess-up” carries directly into this movement which conveys the constant worry and stress that often goes hand in hand with anxiety. The flexatone takes center stage, using the freedom allowed by the bass bow to play an alien-sounding melody. The thundersheet is also of note, mimicking deep breaths which gradually become more shallow and strained as the movement progresses.
5. Exhilarating
As tranquility fades out, the timbales begin a faraway groove that grows throughout the piece. This is feel-good at it finest, with every player using all of their instruments in an ever-changing dance. As the movement develops and grows, metal instruments like the flexatone take over. The movement culminates in unison rhythms and a fade-out with the original groove.