Autumn Rhythm (Perc Ens 5)

Autumn Rhythm is a contemporary percussion quintet written for Kevin Hendricks and the ETSB percussion ensemble. This work focuses on different syncopations and grooves that should layer together to create an interesting sonic experience. This work is scored for two drums and four sounds for each player and is based on and inspired by Jackson Pollocks’ work of the same name. Autumn Rhythm provides an enjoyable experience for the performers and audience alike.

Genre: Percussion Ensemble | # of Players: 5
Series: N/A
Level: Medium Advanced | Duration: 6:35

Instrumentation
Player 1: 2 Toms (medium & high), 4 Graduated Glass Bottles
Player 2: 2 Bongos, 4 Graduated Flower Pots
Player 3: 2 Toms (low & medium), 4 Graduated Metal Bowls
Player 4: 2 Congas, 4 Graduated Wooden Planks
Player 5: Multi-Bass Drum, Snare Drum, 4 Crotales (C, D-flat, F, G-flat)

Program Notes
Autumn Rhythm is a contemporary percussion quintet that uses a mixture of drum, metallic percussion and found sounds to create a unique layer of textures and sounds. While instrument choices are left up to the performers to give room to explore various timbres, colors, and textures, I have included some suggestions. This work for percussion quintet is based on and inspired by Jackson Pollock’s painting of the same name, “Autumn Rhythm,” no. 30 (1950). This work was, in my opinion, Pollock’s absolute masterpiece of the “drip” painting style. Created three years after his initial “drip” painting venture in 1947, “Autumn Rhythm,” no.30, displays a radical approach to the painting art form.

This work is my humble attempt to recreate the feeling this painting conveyed to me when viewing it for the first time. "Autumn Rhythm" was written for and commissioned by Kevin Hendricks for the ETSB percussion ensemble.

– S.W.