Downside, Up and Around (Perc Ens 7)

Downside, Up and Around explores the range of textures and timbres made possible by simple set-ups. It features two snare drum soloists accompanied by five percussionists and is influenced by techno music, which focuses on long-scale ostinati with gradual changes in texture.

Genre: Percussion Ensemble | # of Players: 7
Level: Medium | Duration: 4:30

Instrumentation
Percussion 1 (Piccolo Snare Drum)
Percussion 2 (Concert Snare Drum)
Percussion 3 (2 Concert Toms)
Percussion 4 (Tambourine & Cowbell)
Percussion 5 (Hi-Hat)
Percussion 6 (Ride Cymbal & China Cymbal)
Percussion 7 (Kick Bass Drum laid flat)

Program Notes
Downside, Up and Around is the first in my "Singular Series", a collection of percussion ensemble works that feature limited instrumentation. "The Singular Series" explores the range of textures and timbres made possible by simple set-ups. The piece features two snare drum soloists accompanied by five percussionists. It is influenced by techno music, which focuses on long-scale ostinati with gradual changes in texture. This piece shares that characteristic, allowing students to really get into the pocket of a groove. Pedagogically, performers can work on maintaining tempo and energy, sustaining focus, and promoting ensemble balance.