Bounce

For those looking for a funky, groovy duet, “Bounce” definitely fits the bill. This work makes use of swing sixteenths with straight eighths to give the piece a, well, “bouncy” feel. Though the snare drum is the featured voice, the drum set provides much of the character and melodic contour with minimal voices.

The instrumentation is wonderfully accessible, as is the clear writing style. Most band programs these days likely have a snare drum and a drum set, and the snare drum writing generally reflects marching-style notation, with which the students will probably be familiar. The notation key at the beginning is clear, so even without a teacher/leader, students who can read notation well will be able to collaborate and produce the desired effects. “Bounce” offers performers the opportunity for a true duet, to support one another through their chosen sounds and cohesive physical performance style.

Interestingly, the notated stickings already produce suggested moments of physical performance. About this, the composer states: “Performers are encouraged to add visuals and stick tricks where the opportunity arises. Phrases with rests or single-hand passages afford each hand a chance to lift, twirl, flip, or otherwise add some flair with the stick. Feel free to get creative and have fun!”

—Cassie Bunting
Percussive Notes
Vol. 61, No. 3, June 2023