Stick A-round

Performance Notes

Stick A-round is an distinctive, mid-tempo piece using only drumsticks. This piece is perfect for elementary- to middle school level ensembles. Rhythmically, Stick A-round consists of ¼, ½ and whole rests and 1/8th notes in groups of 2 and 4. Dynamics are limited to p to mf. At the Introduction, drumsticks 1 and 2 are in unison, as are drumsticks 3 and 4. Drumsticks 3 and 4 remain in unison while drumsticks 1 and 2 take turns playing accompanied solos. The opposite occurs in the next 4 measures. At measure 13, drumsticks 1 and 4 take turns, followed by drumsticks 2 and 3. Long trousers would be most helpful when students are performing the “tap on thighs” rhythms, which start at measure 21 and again towards the ending! Performers should be situated side-by-side so they perform the last measure. The 2 performers situated on the inside will click their neighbors’ sticks on both their left AND right sides. TIPS: Instead of tapping on their thighs, especially during a rehearsal, students may use an alternative such as an old book or notebook. Try using different stick sizes to give performances more color.

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