Sonata in A Minor (Scarlatti) (Download)

(L. 241/K. 54) arranged for mallet duet by Brian Slawson

Brian Slawson

Level: Medium

Duration: 3:00

Personnel: 2 players

State Lists: Florida

Release Date: 2012

Product ID : TSPCD-12DL

Price: $26.00

Item #: TSPCD-12DL

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All percussion sounds used in this recording were generated from Virtual Drumline software also by Tapspace.

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Description

Sonata in A Minor is vintage Scarlatti, colorful and vibrant. Arranged by grammy-nominated percussionist, Brian Slawson for vibraphone and marimba, it’s a great example of the magic that’s possible when two percussionists communicate to create what was originally coming from one performer. Showcase the sensitivity and awareness of your percussion duo with this one!

Use of this product is governed by the license terms outlined here.

Instrumentation

Vibraphone
Marimba—low C

Reviews

Employed by the Queen of Spain, Domenico Scarlatti was influenced by Spanish dance music, as is well documented. Distinct from the works of his contemporaries, such as J.S. Bach, this composition demonstrates the unique quality of Scarlatti’s sound. This arrangement for marimba and vibraphone by Brian Slawson smoothly orchestrates the work intended for one performer into a pleasant, yet lively, duet.

The timbral variance between the marimba and vibraphone makes the compositional devices extremely clear to the listener. Using a lot of linear activity, this work requires two mallets for the vibraphonist and four mallets for the marimbist. With no stickings provided, there are several possibilities for four-mallet sticking permutations; however, most performers will be able to execute the marimba passages using only single independent strokes and double vertical strokes at intervals under a fourth. The vibraphonist’s accuracy will be challenged by the octave double-stops that appear throughout the work. Slawson’s clear indication of pedaling suggestions will be appreciated.

Similar to how Bach selections can be used to vary a marimba recital, this piece will demonstrate music from differing eras while adding a chamber music element to a senior recital program.

–Darin Olson
Percussive Notes
Vol. 51, No. 3, May 2013