PUBLICATIONS- $6.00 to $13.00/composition and $11.00 to $20.00/method book

These are advanced college level studies.  They will acquaint the performer with some of the rhythms and technical issues encountered in symphonic music.  They will also provide the player, alone in a practice room, with more of a realistic ensemble experience by listening to music rather than a metronome.

In addition to presenting performance techniques, this book discusses sizes and types of instruments.  The book consists of playing exercises, duets and excerpts from the standard symphonic repertory.

Scissors – George Tantchev

Marimba Solo 
 

This etude-like work emphases single alternate strokes simultaneously in both hands. The main motif expands into a rhythmically complex yet pleasing melody, characteristic for Mr. Tanchev’s unique compositional approach. Influenced by Bulgarian folk music, the motif switches rhythmically between 5/8 and 9/8 time signatures and changing accents, which many times creates the effect of one long phrase crossing over the bar line. This work gives a performer the opportunity to exercise his technique and at the same time to exhibit a sense of rhythm and musicality. “Scissors” makes a great recital or audition work and will add a little spice to any concert.
 

Ragtime in Gankino – George Tantchev

Percussion Ensemble  
 
This percussion ensemble for five players uses xylophone, two marimbas, vibraphone, and tupan. The two marimba parts can be played on one five octave marimba, depending on instrument availability. The tupan is a double headed, wooden drum common to Bulgaria. The composer suggests any hand drum as a substitute for the tupan. The vibraphone player must employ three mallet technique throughout. The work is in 11/16 meter, which will be a challenge for the ensemble to count at first. The xylophone part features a solo cadenza, and verbal cues are part of the piece for all players. Additionally, all keyboard players will play with mallet handles on the edge of the bars. This unusual pairing of ragtime and Bulgarian rhythms creates a fun, fast-paced performance experience.

Download your complete Rhapsody Percussion pricelist for 2010.

The third book in Al Payson’s Snare Drum Method, this book also contains concert, marching and “Pops” material.

The second book in Al Payson’s Snare Drum Method, this book contains concert, marching and “Pops” material.

This is a beginning book which contains 68 melodies by well-known composers, 20 of which have accompaniment provided.

Bulgarian Cocktail – George Tantchev
Marimba and Piano Duet 
 
This four mallet solo for marimba and piano is scored for a low-A marimba. A variety of techniques are required, including playing with the handles, the use of dead strokes and one-handed rolls. The pianist has passages that require holding the strings with one hand while playing with the keyboard with the other.  The solo is tonal, and rhythmic content provides a dance-like spirit. The solo comes with two piano scores to assist with preparation, but it requires quick memorization because of page turns. The extensive use of ostinato material will put this solo within reach of an undergraduate marimba student.

This book, with it’s large amount of accompanying music in two CD’s is designed to help the teacher develop and maintain a high level of interest and motivation in the student.