Instrumentation: orchestra bells, xylophone, chimes, snare drum, bass drum, timpani, tambourine, and triangle.
This is a wonderful learning too for three-four time and the use of the triplet rhythm pattern. Bring all of the rhythmic intensity of Mars to your percussionist while incorporation a major use of dynamics, building from piano to a forte climax. This is a real student and audience pleaser. All parts are equal in difficulty. This work would make a great closer for any concert or solo and ensemble festival.
“This percussion octet is scored for glockenspiel, xylophone, chimes, snare drum, bass drum, timpani, tambourine and triangle. It begins in 3/4 but a hemeloa in the keyboard parts makes the piece sound as if it is in 4/4. A simple rhythmic theme is developed throughout and the 3/4 meter soon becomes clear.
Repetition in the keyboard parts makes this a good choice for a young ensemble with inexperienced mallet players. Each part is challenging, including the triangle and bass drum parts, each of which require two beaters to perform. There is much dynamic contrast and rhythmic variety. This well-grafted piece has much pedagogical and musical value.”