Sprawl - John David Cope [DIGITAL SET]

Sprawl is an exciting work for 8 young percussionists, with a title that reflects both the physical footprint of the setup across the stage and the piece’s uneven, driving rhythmic momentum. Throughout the piece, players layer quarter-note rhythms against a 2+2+3 subdivision in 7/8 time. This interlocking pattern creates an energetic, syncopated drive while giving young performers an engaging way to feel the difference between simple and mixed meters.

Genre: Percussion Ensemble | # of Players: 8
Level: Medium Easy | Duration: 2:10

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

*Marimba 1 & 2 may share a single 4.3-octave instrument.

Program Notes
Sprawl was written for the Bethesda Christian School percussion studio for their 2023 winter concert, with each part tailored specifically for individual students. The title reflects both the physical footprint of the eight-player setup across the stage and the piece’s uneven, driving rhythmic momentum. Throughout the piece, players layer quarter-note rhythms against a 2+2+3 subdivision in 7/8 time. This interlocking pattern creates an energetic, syncopated drive while giving young performers an engaging way to feel the difference between simple and mixed meters.

– J.D.C.