Scattered Reflections

Percussion Ensemble - 7 Players

Duration: 11.5 minutes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Instrumentation:

Marimba 1 (5.0 octave - 4 mallets, Med-Low Tom)

Marimba 2 (4.3 octave - 2 mallets, Low Tom)

Vibraphone 1 (2 mallets, High Tom)

Vibraphone 2 (2 mallets, Med-High Tom)

Percussion 1 (Crotales, Glockenspiel, China Cymbal, Triangle, Snare Drum, Floor Tom)

Percussion 2 (Bongos, 4 Concert Toms)

Percussion 3 (Ride Cymbal, Hi-Hat, Bass Drum)

“Scattered Reflections” began as a simple rhythmic idea that “scattered” and evolved into the rest of the piece. Throughout the piece, the different parts weave in and out of the different instruments, sometimes played melodically, sometimes just rhythmically. There are also times when there is no discernable melody or theme, but rather an atmosphere of sound. Towards the end of the piece, all of the themes combine and intertwine, leading up to a rambunctious finale where all the players play differing rhythmic patterns on drums before lining up in unison for one final crescendo.

The piece is great for ensembles with varying player levels.

“Scattered Reflections” was commissioned by the Valparaiso University Percussion Ensemble, directed by Jeff Brown.