Chemical Songs - Volume 2

Written as a continuation of Chemical Songs — Volume 1, this collection of solos is targeted towards early to mid-level keyboard players, can be played with two mallets, and can either be performed alone or with the included audio accompaniment. On the surface, the sequential nature of the eight solos follows a pattern of easy to more intricate (in terms of rhythmic demands and key signature, for example) and offers flexibility regarding the type of instrument that can be used. As with the first book, all the solos have preface material stating the compositional ideas and tools that are used, and the pedagogical areas targeted.

Once you get “under the hood” of these pieces, you start to see the methodology and maturity behind the compositions, and you very quickly realize that these solos, especially with the soundscape accompaniment, are very cool! Spread across the works are a lot of pockets of variety in terms of style, genre, targeted skills, etc.

The accompaniment tracks were composed by Brett William Dietz, and span across multiple styles and incorporate orchestral sounds and effects, which can really help elevate young players to a “new level” of performance agility and mindset. With each solo lasting between one and two minutes, these can very easily be assigned as a one-week challenge in lessons, with a big payoff at the end. Take a look and listen, and be prepared to be impressed with a new batch of solid musical works for two-mallet players.

—Joshua D. Smith
Percussive Notes
Vol. 59, No. 4, August 2021