Mallet 'N Sound (Solo 5-octave Marimba)

Inspired by autumn in Manhattan, Mallet 'N Sound is a colorful work for solo marimba in three descriptive movements: Autumn Wind, Come Unto Me, and To Somewhere.

Genre: Marimba (4-mallet) | # of Players: 1
Series: N/A
Level: Medium Advanced | Duration: 6:20

Instrumentation
Marimba (5-octave)

Program Notes
This three-movement solo work for marimba was commissioned and premiered by Japanese xylophonist, Mutsumi Tsuuzaki, a former marimbist. Mallet ‘N Sound was composed when I was studying at Manhattan School of Music. I was inspired by the city itself and also got many inspirations from the season of Autumn in New York.

1. Autumn Wind
It sounds a bit oriental because of using pentatonic everywhere in this piece. Expressing the dryness of the air and a solid atmosphere after the rich introduction is a key to this movement. Stay in tempo, playing mechanically yet musically.

2. Come Unto Me
This movement is to be played with tremolos throughout, emulating a chorale. Strive for a warm sound with soft, heavy mallets. Pay particular attention to the voicing of the chords, emphasizing the highest & lowest notes.

3. To Somewhere This movement feature many jazzy elements throughout, especially the rhythms, chords, and articulations. Pay close attention to the placement of accents.