Asante (Perc Ens 6+)

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1. Percussive Notes New Literature Review

   This wonderful little work is an excellent way to introduce younger students to African music and instruments. The score calls for only three mallet instruments, allowing the performers to use what they have at their disposal. However, one of the instruments should be a 4.3-octave marimba. Other than that, vibraphone or xylophone may be used. The instruments required are not too obscure and could be easily obtained by a public school ensemble.
   
   The piece is in traditional form. The mallet parts layer on top of each other to create the overall harmony and rhythm. The percussionists function as a traditional accompaniment, with each part written out to be accessible for younger groups. The players are only required to utilize two mallets, and the melody is repetitive enough to be learned fairly quickly. If this was done with an older, more experienced, group, there are places that solos could be added to create more interest for that crowd.
   
   This piece is a fun way to introduce young students to mallet playing and to African instruments. The piece is easy enough that players would even be able to switch around, giving everyone a chance to experience the different instruments in this setting. Brandon Dittgen has given us a fun piece to use in educational settings that will be sure to keep young students interested and excited about percussion playing!
   
   Josh Armstrong
   Percussive Notes
   Vol. 57, No. 3, July 2019 Josh Armstrong on Jul 11th 2022

2. Great Piece!

   This piece is great for not only teaching syncopation, but for use during the month of February for Black History Month since based off an African Children's Melody! Daniel on Feb 6th 2021