Rhythmotion

Performance Notes

 RHYTHMOTION is a medium-fast piece.  This piece is best suited for elementary- to middle school level ensembles.  Rhythmically, RHYTHMOTION consists of ¼, ½ and whole rests, ¼, whole and 1/8^th notes in groups of 2 and 4.

Boom, bang, crash!  This piece starts strong and opens with a ‘conversation’ between the unison drums and lighter instruments—shaker, tambourine, claves and the bongos.  The bass drum part creates the effect of pulsating, accented patterns for the drums and the shaker provides a solid steady beat foundation for the lighter instruments.  Though there are only 2 notes written for the clave, they should be noticeable when they are played.  The conversation continues until the lead-in to letter C.  Here, there’s a sort of cool-down and the snare drum is the only drum playing here amongst a colorful accompaniment from the triangle, shaker and tambourine.  Intensity, as well as the sonic palette builds at letter D.  At letter E, the conversation resumes, this time with the snare, bongos and the help of the woodblock first, followed by the tom-toms and bass drum.  At letter F, the drums start in a soft unison with the bass drum creating the same pulsating, accented effect.  The ensemble increases in volume until the ending.

 Listen to Rhythmotion