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Unique in its use of timbre, groove, melody, and counterpoint, Gene Koshinski’s Rattle the Cage is a modern day tour de force for percussion ensemble. Utilizing the primary instrumentation of 3 marimbas, 2 vibraphones, xylophone, glockenspiel, chimes, and bass drum, it mixes in a collection of non-pitched bells, siren and cymbals.
Players are called upon to create unique textures through a variety of playing techniques. There are numerous instances of interplay that will require mature performers, however technical passages are still quite playable so long as a solid foundation of tempo and communication is present. It is not a program piece - it is instead an abstract exploration of the musical elements mentioned above (most notably timbre and texture).
While this is an ambitious and work for percussion ensemble, it also communicates a certain optimism and lightness that will make it entertaining for music lovers of all types.
Use of this product is governed by the license terms outlined here.
“Rattle the Cage” was composed for and commissioned by Dan Armstrong for the Penn State Percussion Ensemble and was premiered on April 20, 2015. The piece explores the use of extended techniques and varied implements on keyboard percussion. The piece supplements the use of keyboard percussion with an array of small non-pitched percussion instruments. Eight very well-rounded players are required to perform this piece.
Gene Koshinski describes “Rattle the Cage” as “not a program piece but instead an abstract exploration of timbre and texture. With this in mind, I made a conscious effort not to ignore familiar musical components such as melody, functional harmony, rhythm, groove, and counterpoint. ”The title is taken from sounds evoked throughout the composition.
The use of extended techniques and interlocking rhythms throughout is exquisite, and the melodic and harmonic content provides the perfect marriage of sophistication and accessibility. “Rattle the Cage” is unique in its own right, but elements of Maslanka, Zivkovic, and John Adams are all present.
I highly recommend, “Rattle the Cage” for any collegiate or professional percussion ensemble. It would serve as a great centerpiece and/or closer to any concert program.
—Joe Millea
Percussive Notes
Vol. 55, No. 2, May 2017
Unique in its use of timbre, groove, melody, and counterpoint, Gene Koshinski’s Rattle the Cage is a modern day tour de force for percussion ensemble. Utilizing the primary instrumentation of 3 marimbas, 2 vibraphones, xylophone, glockenspiel, chimes, and bass drum, it mixes in a collection of non-pitched bells, siren and cymbals.
Players are called upon to create unique textures through a variety of playing techniques. There are numerous instances of interplay that will require mature performers, however technical passages are still quite playable so long as a solid foundation of tempo and communication is present. It is not a program piece - it is instead an abstract exploration of the musical elements mentioned above (most notably timbre and texture).
While this is an ambitious and work for percussion ensemble, it also communicates a certain optimism and lightness that will make it entertaining for music lovers of all types.
Use of this product is governed by the license terms outlined here.
“Rattle the Cage” was composed for and commissioned by Dan Armstrong for the Penn State Percussion Ensemble and was premiered on April 20, 2015. The piece explores the use of extended techniques and varied implements on keyboard percussion. The piece supplements the use of keyboard percussion with an array of small non-pitched percussion instruments. Eight very well-rounded players are required to perform this piece.
Gene Koshinski describes “Rattle the Cage” as “not a program piece but instead an abstract exploration of timbre and texture. With this in mind, I made a conscious effort not to ignore familiar musical components such as melody, functional harmony, rhythm, groove, and counterpoint. ”The title is taken from sounds evoked throughout the composition.
The use of extended techniques and interlocking rhythms throughout is exquisite, and the melodic and harmonic content provides the perfect marriage of sophistication and accessibility. “Rattle the Cage” is unique in its own right, but elements of Maslanka, Zivkovic, and John Adams are all present.
I highly recommend, “Rattle the Cage” for any collegiate or professional percussion ensemble. It would serve as a great centerpiece and/or closer to any concert program.
—Joe Millea
Percussive Notes
Vol. 55, No. 2, May 2017
