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Dramatic tension permeates this work as the solitary clarinet is pitted against the potentially explosive and overpowering might of the percussion ensemble.The state of fragile coexistence between the clarinetist and the percussionists at times requires the conductor to function as a "referee" in order to preserve the dynamic balance. The most theatrical example of this occurs about midway through the composition. At this point the music builds to a deafening, chaotic fury during which the clarinetist has no chance of being heard. The director restores order by "disciplining" the percussionists with a piercing blast on a police whistle. In contrast, Coexistence contains sections of relatively low intensity with delicate coloristic shadings and intricate ensemble coordination. Timbral modulations figure prominently throughout the work.
Number of Players: 5
Difficulty: Grade 4
Instrumentation:
Player I: Bb Clarinet
Player II: Xylophone, Chimes, Bells, 4 Tom-Toms, Sizzle Cymbal, Large Tam-Tam, Triangle, Wind Chimes
Player III: Vibraphone, Celesta, Triangle, 5 Temple Blocks, Maracas, Snare Drum
Player IV: 3 Suspended Cymbals, Triangle, Cowbell, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Tam-Tam
Player V: Marimba, 1 Timpani, Large Cowbell, Large Tam-Tam, Ratchet, Whip, Hi-Hat, Wind Chimes
Howard J. Buss (b. 1951) is recognized internationally as a significant composer of contemporary classical music. His compositions have received critical acclaim and have been performed in more than 50 countries. His music is widely performed and frequently featured at national and international music conventions and festivals. They have been performed by faculty musicians from major universities as well as current and former members of prestigious organizations such as The Boston Symphony Orchestra, Minnesota Orchestra, Buffalo Philharmonic, Israel Philharmonic, Berlin Philharmonic, Vancouver Symphony, Atlanta Symphony, New York Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, etc. A copy of his patriotic composition Fanfares is included in the Presidential Collection of Ronald Reagan. Buss' more than 120 published works include instrumental solos, chamber music, symphonic, choral, and band works. They are fast becoming part of the standard repertoire in concert halls.
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