This lively, vibrant work is an excellent choice for the opening number on a percussion ensemble concert or for any occasion. The introduction to the overture states a rhythmic theme that is echoed through the composition by pitched and non-pitched instruments.
Number of Players: 8
Difficulty: Grade 5
Instrumentation:
Player I: Bells
Player II: Chimes, Suspended Cymbal
Player III: Marimba
Player IV: Vibes, Xylophone
Player V: Gong, 4 Roto-Toms
Player VI: Snare Drum
Player VII: Tenor Drum
Player VIII: 4 Timpani
John H. Beck was a member of the U.S. Marine Band for four years before joining the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra as Principal Percussionist in 1959 and becoming Principal Timpanist in 1962. A recipient of B.M. and M.M. degrees from the Eastman School of Music, he currently heads its Percussion Department and is conductor of the Eastman Percussion Ensemble.