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.
Price: $6.00
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.
Price: $18.00
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.
Price: $18.00
Rhapsody Percussion
High Quality Mallets & Accessories, Low Prices and Great Resources
Percussion Compositions
George Tantchev first began studying percussion at the age of eight with Prof. Dr. Dobri Paliev and remained his student until graduation
from the State Music Academy in Sofia, Bulgaria.
In 1998 George completed a Master of Music Performance at
Ithaca College, NY, with mallet virtuoso Gordon Stout. He furthered his studies with Dr. Richard Gipson at the Oklahoma University.
George earned his Doctor of Musical Arts degree in 2004. His interest in irregular rhythms resulted in a dissertation titled Asymmetrical
Rhythms for Marimba.
As an active Member of the Percussive Arts Society, George has appeared as
a featured artist at the Dallas 2000 Percussive Arts Society International Convention and has contributed several articles for thePercussive Notes magazine.
He studied composition with Prof. Bentsion Eliezer and Prof. Dr. Gregory
Woodward. His compositions have been performed at PENDIM International Percussion Competition, several PASIC meetings, Days of Percussion
and have also been frequently reviewed in Percussive Notes. George is winner of the special prize of the Bulgarian Composers Union
and is laureate of several percussion competitions.
George has collaborated as a drummer with jazz
trumpeter and Grammy Award Winner Alex Meixner. He has appeared as drummer, vibraphone, marimba, xylophone and percussion soloist
throughout the world. He also led a Bulgarian Folk Ensemble at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago.
Currently
George Tantchev is Director of the NSO School of Music, where he also teaches Drum Set and Percussion. George is a member of the Vic
Firth educational team. He resides with his wife Desi - violist and their two sons Boyan and George in Glenview, IL. www.gtantchev.com
Featured Products
Al Payson is a retired percussionist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
and a member of the faculty of DePaul University.
Al Payson's Publications include Beginning and Intermediate Methods for Snare
Drum, Marimba/Xylophone and Bass Drum/Cymbals
and Accessories as well as Etudes for Snare Drum.
Most publications come with accompanying
CDs.
Last Months Winner: Tara Kasperowski
This month you could win:
Elementary Marimba and Xylophone Method - Al Payson
