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Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827) is regarded by many as the greatest composer in the history of music. He was prone to sudden mood swings often reflected in his music. This excerpt from his Piano Sonata 13, Op.27 No. 1 is no exception, as the original dark, introspective material is later contrasted by music that is light and humorous.
Brian Slawson brings Beethoven’s piano solo to life by way of intimate scoring for mallet percussion trio (glockenspiel, vibraphone, and marimba). While relatively simple on the page, its challenge lies in the player’s ability to communicate as one. The 3/4 meter progresses at a brisk pace while the marimba and vibraphone parts support pulse-driven answers to the glockenspiel melody, creating a back-and-forth dialogue.
This piece comes as a professionally printed and bound score and includes individual parts in PDF format for printing or for tablet viewing.
Anyone familiar with Beethoven’s piano sonatas will recognize this short and exciting piece. The total playing time for this composition is just over two minutes, so it will work well in a host of performances: a percussion ensemble opener, a selection in a mixed ensemble recital, or even a prelude to an orchestra concert. The setup is simple enough to quickly move on and off a stage, if need be.
The arrangement is very well written throughout. All dynamic and phrase markings are very clear, as are all instructions to the performers. Because of some of the intrinsic elements of sound production within the instrumentation, some concessions will need to be made by all players to ensure the proper balance throughout. The bright tempo will initially be somewhat of an issue for younger players but with careful practice and rehearsal, this can be conquered.
—Marcus D. Reddick
Percussive Notes
Vol. 54, No. 5, November 2016
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827) is regarded by many as the greatest composer in the history of music. He was prone to sudden mood swings often reflected in his music. This excerpt from his Piano Sonata 13, Op.27 No. 1 is no exception, as the original dark, introspective material is later contrasted by music that is light and humorous.
Brian Slawson brings Beethoven’s piano solo to life by way of intimate scoring for mallet percussion trio (glockenspiel, vibraphone, and marimba). While relatively simple on the page, its challenge lies in the player’s ability to communicate as one. The 3/4 meter progresses at a brisk pace while the marimba and vibraphone parts support pulse-driven answers to the glockenspiel melody, creating a back-and-forth dialogue.
This piece comes as a professionally printed and bound score and includes individual parts in PDF format for printing or for tablet viewing.
Anyone familiar with Beethoven’s piano sonatas will recognize this short and exciting piece. The total playing time for this composition is just over two minutes, so it will work well in a host of performances: a percussion ensemble opener, a selection in a mixed ensemble recital, or even a prelude to an orchestra concert. The setup is simple enough to quickly move on and off a stage, if need be.
The arrangement is very well written throughout. All dynamic and phrase markings are very clear, as are all instructions to the performers. Because of some of the intrinsic elements of sound production within the instrumentation, some concessions will need to be made by all players to ensure the proper balance throughout. The bright tempo will initially be somewhat of an issue for younger players but with careful practice and rehearsal, this can be conquered.
—Marcus D. Reddick
Percussive Notes
Vol. 54, No. 5, November 2016
