Oblivion - John David Cope [DIGITAL SET]

Oblivion is a work for 9 young percussionists with a title that highlights the piece’s dramatic shifts in energy, where quiet, interlocking canons are suddenly overtaken by powerful, full-ensemble climaxes. By utilizing canonical writing across both the melodic and rhythmic instruments, these stark contrasts challenge young musicians to listen carefully to one another while maintaining precise balance, blend, and dynamic control throughout.

Genre: Percussion Ensemble | # of Players: 9
Level: Medium Easy | Duration: 2:00

Instrumentation
Score (8.5"x11" stapled booklet)
Glockenspiel
Vibraphone
Marimba 1: 4-octave*
Marimba 2: 4.5-octave* (or 4.3-octave with optional passages)
Timpani: 4 drums
Percussion 1: Snare Drum
Percussion 2: Bass Drum
Percussion 3: 3 Temple Blocks (or Wood Blocks), Triangle, Suspended Cymbal
Percussion 4: 4 Concert Toms

*Marimba 1 and 2 can share a single instrument.

Program Notes
Oblivion was commissioned by Ross Brown and the Bethesda Christian School Music Department. Having spent three years directing the BCS percussion studio, I tailored each part to specific students to nurture their growth while fostering ensemble unity. The title highlights the piece’s dramatic shifts in energy, where quiet, interlocking canons are suddenly overtaken by powerful, full-ensemble climaxes. By utilizing canonical writing across both the melodic and rhythmic instruments, these stark contrasts challenge young musicians to listen carefully to one another while maintaining precise balance, blend, and dynamic control throughout.