Fallen Stars (Flex Perc Ens 3-8)

Inspired by the poem “Starfall” by Rainer Maria Rilke, Fallen Stars paints a picture of reflection, wonder, and longing through its vidid imagery of a meteor shower. Playable by as few as 3 keyboard percussionists, bonus parts for marimba, timpani, and auxiliary percussion offer flexibility and give the piece even more color.

Genre: Percussion Ensemble | # of Players: 3-8+
Series: Ignite Series
Level: Intermediate | Duration: 2:45

Instrumentation
Required for Performance
Bells
Vibraphone 1
Vibraphone 2
* Vibraphone 1 & 2 may share one instrument

Flexible Percussion Ensemble
(the director may add these parts according to availability and discretion)

Marimba 1
Marimba 2
Timpani: 4 drums
Percussion 1: Triangle, Concert Bass Drum
Percussion 2: Mark Tree (Wind Chimes), Suspended Cymbal

*Marimba 1 & 2 may share one 4.3-octave instrument

Program Notes
Fallen Stars was originally written for metallic keyboard percussion trio under the title "Starfall" in the collection “Triology.” It has been expanded here for full percussion ensemble, including lush, rolled marimbas, timpani, and sparkling auxiliary percussion to give the piece even more color. Inspired by the poem “Starfall” by Rainer Maria Rilke, Fallen Stars paints a picture of reflection, wonder, and longing through its vidid imagery of a meteor shower.

The IGNITE Series for Flexible Percussion Ensemble
This unique series was designed specifically for young percussionists as they experience the magic of playing in a percussion ensemble. Each piece provides the director and students with great flexibility – from the number of players to the tempo to the instrumentation. Light a fire under your students today!