The Serpent (Digital Copy)

Performance Notes

 The Serpent is a mid-tempo piece that often oscillates between loud and soft.  It is best suited for the middle- to the high school level ensemble.  Rhythmically, The Serpent consists of 1/8^th, ¼, ½ and whole rests; ¼ notes and 1/8^th notes in groups of 2 and 4.  The Serpent tells a story of observing a snake’s often-mysterious behavior (i.e. a cobra) in anticipation.

 The beginning introduces us to the serpent—it’s color pattern, length, position, etc.  Letter A introduces action to the piece’s story, leading us into letter B, where the serpent lies, totally still.  This section builds to letter C, where the serpent raises its head, feeling agitated.  Letter D settles down a bit, with the suspended cymbal evoking a feeling of exotic mystery.  The serpent keeps its eyes upon the observer as he/she changes their point-of-vision.  The build into letter E represents the serpent positioning to strike, which it soon does, repeatedly, until the piece’s ending.

 The first 4 measures are played a total of 4 times with players entering at different times.  There are permutated patterns, intertwined amongst the blocks and bells parts.  The toms and snare parts here are purposely f while the blocks and bells are mf.  During the 4^th time the triangle/bass drum/quijada player is playing the triangle AND the bass drum.  The bass drum part becomes busier as well, with 1/8^th notes.  The piece slowly builds to letter A.  At letter B, the floor tom and timp toms remain prominent.  All unison passages are at least f.  The suspended cymbal part, especially at letter D, is essential to the piece’s sense of mystery.  When the toms (and snare) return to sticks 6 measures after D, they are once again prominent and remain so for the rest of the piece.