Burritt-Blue Soul

Blue Soul is the most recent work in my series of "blue" pieces. It was commissioned by Edition Svitzer in collaboration with Daniel Berg, The Royal College of Music in Stockholm, Sweden and the Academy of Music and Drama in Gothenburg, Sweden. The Quintet features 2 vibraphones and 2 marimbas with rhythmic and timbrel reinforcement in the 5th part, primarily comprised of skinned membranes and wooden sounds.

When I think of a blue soul, I don't think of sadness, as might be associated with such a title. It's more of a reflective and present soul, appreciative and fully immersed in the world and people in their lives. Blue is my favorite color and one that reminds me of hope and good things.

Blue Soul is in memory of Dex, my dog and best buddy. I'll miss you on my walks, but I'll never forget you pal.

- Michael Burritt

Additional Information:

• Number of players: 5
• Difficulty: Advanced
• Instrumentation:
• Player 1
• Vibraphone (F-F)
• Glockenspiel
• Wooden Plank (resonant)
• Tom, small (double headed)
• Player 2
• Vibraphone (low C)
• Bass Drum, 28-32"
• Tambourim Crotales
• Player 3
• Marimba (5.0 Octave)
• Tom, medium (double headed)
• Player 4
• Marimba (5.0 Octave)
• Tom, large (double headed)
• Bamboo Chimes
• Player 5
• Tam Tam (w/ metal stick)
• Bongos
• 2 Congas
• Suspended Cymbal (medium)
• Kick Drum with pedal (22")
• Glockenspiel
• Xylophone
• Wooden Plank (resonant)
• Hi-Hat
• Harmonica in C