Less (Percussion Quartet)

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1. Percussive Notes New Literature Review

   “Less” is an exquisite work for percussion quartet composed for Eric Willie and the UNCG Percussion Ensemble. The sounds Alejandro Rutty has created can only be described as stunning and otherworldly. Rutty writes, “All three movements in ‘Less’ share a common nature: a persistent, rather unchanging surface made with a lively, effervescent texture. This ‘dynamic stasis’ takes mildly differentiated tones in each movement: ‘Surgical Dreams’ references the hypnotic sonic environment of medical operating rooms and the semi-conscious dreamy way in which we might experience them. ‘Cadenza’ is a nod to the remarkable shaker-virtuoso tradition in some regions of South America. ‘Meditation’ is a special case: while conceptually similar to ‘Surgical Dreams’ (‘dynamic stasis’ traversed by a long melodic line), I wrote it in a slow five-beat compound-meter bar (15/8), remembering those lucky months when I ventured to play with local folk and jazz musicians in the island of Saint Lucia.”
   
   In the crowded world of percussion quartet repertoire, “Less” is a standout piece that needs to be performed as much as possible. It manages to be accessible and challenging to both the players and the listener. I particularly enjoyed the combination of bright and earthy sounds. “Less” challenges the performers to take on multiple ensemble responsibilities, often playing two parts simultaneously. A lot of ensemble skill and cohesion is required for a successful performance.
   
   Joe Millea
   Percussive Notes
   Vol. 59, No. 5, October 2021 Joe Millea on Jun 30th 2022