C:M (2006)
Thomas McKenney
PUBLISHER: C. Alan Publications
RECORDINGS: None
RANGE: 4.5 octaves
DURATION: 6:30
MOVEMENTS: Single movement
TYPE OF ACCOMPANIMENT: Fixed
MUSICAL OVERVIEW: The tape functions as a backdrop for the marimba, providing a continuo background for rhythmically slower marimba writing, interjecting in rests, or adding emphasis to notes in the marimba. The tape can be difficult to follow especially realigning after periods of silence. Sections of the tape containing sounds with contrasting timbres occasionally make discerning the beat difficult. The music is based on two complimentary hexachords and relies on harmonic sound instead of a melody. Sections reappear as motivic devices. A matching set of medium-hard mallets is recommended.
ACCOMPANIMENT OVERVIEW: Synthesized sounds, specifically frequency modulation. The tape is not interactive as much as it embellishes the marimba and, at times, supplies an underlying beat.
TECHNIQUE OVERVIEW: SI, SIA, DV, and DL. DL strokes occur rarely and only as a part of four-mallet, single-line sticking. Single-independent alternating strokes comprise the majority of strokes. The writing utilizes patterns and repetitious sticking choices and is very idiomatic. A ninth is required in the right hand, but the interval is in the upper two octaves and easily playable. Some passages include octaves. A majority of the writing is for sixths or less.