Animism for Prepared Timpani & Tape (25th Anniversary Edition)

DOWNLOAD ELECTRONIC ACCOMPANIMENT

A fast paced, rhythmic gem. The timpanist has the opportunity to perform complex, strictly metered rhythms as well as some rubato sections of free playing. The score calls for extensive hand drumming techniques, and for various preparations of the drums, as well as requiring the performer to ‘explore’ timbres and nuances within the dents of the bowls.

Genre: Timpani/Percussion with Electronic Accompaniment | # of Players: 1 + Track
Level: Medium Advanced | Duration: 6:10

Instrumentation
4 timpani, light towel or cloth, 3 temple gongs

Program Notes
Animism for Prepared Timpani and Tape is based on a 13-measure theme in mixed meter, which is initially stated in measure 4. When superimposed over a 5/8 time signature (as in the closing moments of the piece), this theme will occupy 10-1/2 measures. Most of the piece contains events that are strictly metered and must line up with the accompaniment precisely to be effective. These sections are characterized by traditional time signatures and solid barlines. In some sections, an “X” signature is used to denote ‘free time,’ and dotted barlines indicate that the performer is to play freely, while the accompaniment may or may not continue in metered time. Approximate durations are provided (in seconds) for each event during these sections, and appropriate cues are provided to bring the two parts together when necessary. Three pitches are used in the piece, executed mainly by the accompaniment.

When pitches are of importance to the player, the score provides them above each notehead (mainly from letter G to the end). If specific pitches are not needed, instructions such as ‘lowest pitch’ or ‘gliss. low to high’ are given.

This piece is intended to be played on older instruments, preferably with dents and other abnormalities, generally found in a set of school or practice drums. Since the score calls for extensive hand drumming techniques, and for various preparations of the drums, playing the piece could unduly stretch or damage the heads. Additionally, the score requires the performer to ‘explore’ timbres and nuances within the dents of the bowls. Obviously, a new set of drums shouldn’t serve in this capacity, possibly being damaged in the process of preparation and performance.