Suite No. 1

Suite No. 1 by Fred Emory Smith. Percussion Quintet. For Snare drum, 4 concert toms, 4 timpani, concert bass drum, marimba (low A), glockenspiel, xylophone, chimes, tam tam, tambourine, temple blocks, triangle, ride cymbal, suspended cymbal, crash cymbals, claves, shaker (5 players). Percussion Ensembles. Medium. Score and CD-ROM (containing printable parts). 16 pages. Duration 4'30". Published by Tapspace Publications (TA.TSPCE-55).

Suite No. 1 for percussion ensemble will push intermediate players while keeping more advanced players on their toes as well. Shifting time signatures and some well-placed but tricky rest figures will ensure the entire ensemble is counting like crazy...and listening! The piece makes use of a rhythmic motif in 4/4 time that is later explored in 7/8 time. Although not bombastic in nature, the work is certainly high in energy. A middle section turns lyrical and smooth until the drums take over once again. Conversational elements are present throughout, and the timpani part in particular will require a player who is comfortable carrying some small solo responsibilities. Occastional multitasking is also required. Suite No. 1 could easily fit anywhere in your concert program where a slightly elevated heart rate is required! This piece comes with a full, bound score and includes a CD-Rom containing an audio recording and all individual parts available for printing.