McClure-Preludes-M

Each movement is dedicated to a member of the Bowling Green State University Percussion Studio that Mr. McClure knew well while he was also a member. The prelude is characteristic of the percussionist to whom it is dedicated. Each prelude is highly independent of the others. As a result, they can be performed separately, in any combination, or as a whole. Prelude I is a very rhythmic piece based on several ostinati patterns. It is filled syncopated rhythms and surprise pauses. Prelude II begins with an altered chorale form. Instead of rolling, the "chorale" is made up of 16th notes played very fast and quietly. The notes falling on the beat should not be accented or stand out. Overall, this should sound like a wash of sound. It requires that the performer be very comfortable with the two different 16th note patterns used. Prelude III is a fast, ever changing race through dissonance. The piece is loosely based on octatonic scales. Two main motives provide the structure for this movement. This prelude is rhythmic and syncopated in nature. Prelude IV is a chorale for marimba. Prelude V is loosely based on the theme and variations form. The melodic content that reappears is presented in the left hand of the performer as a bass line. This movement relies heavily on the right and left hand being completely independent from the other.

Number of Players:
Difficulty: Grade 5
Instrumentation:

Solo Marimba

Robert McClure began formal music study at the age of 16. He has studied percussion with Jim Briggs, Robert Bell, David Pasquarella and Dr. Roger Schupp at BGSU.

Robert graduated in the spring of 2007 from Bowling Green State University with a Bachelors Degree in Music Education. He is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Composition at the University of Arizona, studying under Daniel Asia.