The Miraculous Mandarin

The Miraculous Mandarin (for percussion ensemble). By Bela Bartok (1881-1945). Arranged by James Ancona. Percussion Ensemble. For glockenspiel, 3 marimbas (low A), xylophone, crotales, 3 vibraphones, 5 timpani, large tam tam, chimes, 2 china cymbals, 18" suspended cymbal, 4 toms, wind gong, medium gong, 2 small gongs of different sizes, dark suspended cymbal, bright suspended cymbal (8 players). Percussion Feature. Marching Band. Advanced. Score and parts on CD-ROM. 36 pages. Duration 4'00". Published by Tapspace Publications (TA.TSPCE-04).

This percussion ensemble arrangement of "The Miraculous Mandarin" is based upon three movements of Bartok's original work. The Beginning - A challenging display of technique, timbral variety, and creative orchestration. The Second Seduction - Featuring the vibraphones, this movement creates a rubato, tense beauty. The Chase - A relentless conclusion which drives to the ultimate point of release. This arrangement will challenge performers, and offers a programmatic piece which will showcase the versatility of the percussion ensemble's timbral range. It was first performed by the Santa Clara Vanguard Percussion Ensemble in 2000.