Two Dances for Four Timpani [DIGITAL]

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1. Percussive Notes New Literature Review

   This publication presents two pieces, each of which describes its style in the title. The first solo, “Salsa,” is a bright-tempo piece that features the syncopation found in Latin-jazz tunes. There are a few unusual pattens such as quarter-note triplets and quintuplets. One section imitates a cowbell pattern by playing on the rim. This texture is mixed with regular notes with the other hand.
   
   This solo should be fun to hear and play. The only negative comment would be that there are very few dynamics written, so the soloist will need to add expression to make it more interesting. The second solo, “Galop,” is a rapid presto in 2/4. The composer suggests hard, cork, or wood mallets for clarity. This is so much fun that students will want to play it. The themes feature a strong reference to the Offenbach tune used for the Can-Can ballet music. Color changes are made by changes between playing in the center and normal playing areas. In one phrase, or section, pedal movement is needed to play a scale moving between E and E-flat. Another technical difference is the use of buzz notes, which closes the development section, and a return to the opening. This publication should be very popular for the performer and audience.
   
   George Frock
   PERCUSSIVE NOTES
   VO. 59, NO. 2, APRIL 2021 George Frock on Jun 29th 2022