Stand Music by Kevin Robles is a quick, fun, and flexible novelty piece for three or more players and … you guessed it … music stands!
Players perform simple rhythms that intertwine and layer to hint at a marching drumline feel but in a percussion ensemble setting. Other percussion instruments or “found” instruments (pots, pans, buckets, chairs, etc.) may be used in placed of music stands, provided the instrument can produce two distinct sounds. Perfect for engaging younger students as well as providing a fun option for more experienced ensembles.
Use of this product is governed by the license terms outlined here.
3 music stands (may substitute with other “found” instruments that have two distinct sounds)
“Stand Music” is a short novelty trio for beginning percussionists. Scored for three players, each playing a single music stand with sticks, the personnel can be expanded by multiplying the number of players per part. To add additional interest and accessibility (or to extend the life of your school’s music stands), the composer also notes the work may be performed on found instruments or other combinations of two distinct sounds per player.
Musically, the piece is simple and straightforward, utilizing just two sounds: the dry top surface of the stand and the bright sound of the stand’s pole. Once all voices have entered and established their respective rhythmic motives, each player takes a written-out solo over a constant quarter-note accompaniment. The ternary form involves plenty of repetition, contributing to the ease of learning for young players.
Overall, “Stand Music” is a solid choice for new percussionists to explore chamber music. The musical material is not complicated, but still presents some technical challenges for developing young hands. Everyone can be included from a larger class of students, and each player gets their moment to shine. The piece would work well as a short feature during a band or orchestra concert, and audiences will surely get a kick out of the instrumentation.
—Marco Schirripa
Percussive Notes
Vol. 62, No. 4, August 2024
Stand Music by Kevin Robles is a quick, fun, and flexible novelty piece for three or more players and … you guessed it … music stands!
Players perform simple rhythms that intertwine and layer to hint at a marching drumline feel but in a percussion ensemble setting. Other percussion instruments or “found” instruments (pots, pans, buckets, chairs, etc.) may be used in placed of music stands, provided the instrument can produce two distinct sounds. Perfect for engaging younger students as well as providing a fun option for more experienced ensembles.
Use of this product is governed by the license terms outlined here.
3 music stands (may substitute with other “found” instruments that have two distinct sounds)
“Stand Music” is a short novelty trio for beginning percussionists. Scored for three players, each playing a single music stand with sticks, the personnel can be expanded by multiplying the number of players per part. To add additional interest and accessibility (or to extend the life of your school’s music stands), the composer also notes the work may be performed on found instruments or other combinations of two distinct sounds per player.
Musically, the piece is simple and straightforward, utilizing just two sounds: the dry top surface of the stand and the bright sound of the stand’s pole. Once all voices have entered and established their respective rhythmic motives, each player takes a written-out solo over a constant quarter-note accompaniment. The ternary form involves plenty of repetition, contributing to the ease of learning for young players.
Overall, “Stand Music” is a solid choice for new percussionists to explore chamber music. The musical material is not complicated, but still presents some technical challenges for developing young hands. Everyone can be included from a larger class of students, and each player gets their moment to shine. The piece would work well as a short feature during a band or orchestra concert, and audiences will surely get a kick out of the instrumentation.
—Marco Schirripa
Percussive Notes
Vol. 62, No. 4, August 2024