Unhinged (Percussion Quintet)

Unhinged is written for 5 percussionists and is a high-energy and intricate challenge for the performers. It features many traditional rudiments and techniques but also incorporates several concepts that stretch the expectations of the audience.

Genre: Percussion Ensemble | # of Players: 5
Series: N/A
Level: Advanced | Duration: 5:05

Instrumentation
Score (8.5"x11" stapled booklet)

Player 1: Snare Drum, Cymbal Stack, China Cymbal, Splash Cymbal, 2 Brake Drums
Player 2: Impact Drum, Mounted Tambourine, Jam Block, Opera Gong, Bongos, Sizzle Cymbal, Splash Cymbal, Concert Tambourine
Player 3: Snare Drum, 2 Woodblocks, Cowbell, Crash Cymbal (suspended), 3 Concert Toms
Player 4: Concert Bass Drum, Conga, Log Drum ( 2 pitches), Splash Cymbal, China Cymbal, Concert Tambourine
Player 5: Snare Drum, 2 Concert Toms, Opera Gong, Sizzle Cymbal, Suspended Cymbal, China Cymbal, Concert Tambourine

Program Notes
Unhinged is written for 5 percussionists and is a high-energy and intricate challenge for the performers. It features many traditional rudiments and techniques but also incorporates several concepts that stretch the expectations of the audience.

When writing this piece, I had in mind a friend who had recently gone through personal and professional hardships. Unfortunately, circumstances were very unlucky for them, and it had a harsh impact on their lives. Over time, they began to move on from the situation, but something had changed about them. They had no problem speaking their mind or doing things that would seem out of place to a stranger. This pattern of behavior continued for many months until it became their new personality. It was almost as if I had said goodbye to my friend and hello to a new and more 'unhinged' version of them. This piece is my attempt to embody the unhinged spirit with all its anger, dark humor, spite, and, of course, unpredictability.

– A.V.