Rimbasly (1989)
Daniel McCarthy
PUBLISHER: C. Alan Publications
RECORDINGS: Shadowchasers, Michael Burritt (Truemedia Jazzworks)
RANGE: 4.6 octaves
DURATION: 9:15
MOVEMENTS: Single movement
TYPE OF ACCOMPANIMENT: Fixed
MUSICAL OVERVIEW: The work is harmonically diverse, stemming from jazz-influenced harmonies, and rhythmically exciting. Some moments are free and improvisatory while others feel pulled straight out of rock music. The first, third, and the latter half of the second section contain rapidly moving lines covering the entire range of the instrument, a matching set of hard mallets is preferred. A brief chorale benefits from a switch to soft mallets in the middle section. The marimba often pushes to the foreground of the texture.
ACCOMPANIMENT OVERVIEW: Synthesized sounds. Sustained tones in the tape often support fast, sweeping single-line phrases in the marimba. The majority of the accompaniment is rhythmically active and interplays with the marimba requiring precise synchronization.
TECHNIQUE OVERVIEW: SI, SIA, DV, and DL. Compositional techniques include small interval one-handed rolls and intricate single-line writing. The writing is difficult at times yet remains idiomatic. Sticking suggestions throughout the score are generally sensible and provide a solid framework. The performer must be comfortable with complete independence between the hands.