Moore, M.-Critical Mass (SP)-B/2V/C/Cro./4M/4-5T/P

Critical Mass by Matt Moore is a percussion ensemble piece written for 12 players. In nuclear physics, "critical mass" is a term that refers to the smallest amount of fissile material needed for a sustained nuclear chain reaction. This piece portrays that idea as it gains, and at times loses its ability to sustain itself over the course of the piece. Just as critical mass and a stable momentum seem to have been finally achieved in the final portion of the piece, the ensemble struggles to remain in control and finds catastrophe imminent. Duration:10'45"

INSTRUMENTATION
Crotales & Bells
Chimes & Xylophone
Vibraphone 1
Vibraphone 2
Marimba 1 (4.3-octave)
Marimba 2 (4.3-octave)
Marimba 3 (4.5-octave, opt. 5-octave) & Suspended Cymbal
Marimba 4 (5-octave) & China Cymbal
Timpani
Percussion 1 - Medium Suspended Cymbal, Ride Cymbal, Snare Drum, 4 Concert Toms
Percussion 2 - Triangle, Wind Chimes, 2 Suspended Cymbals (high & low), Tam-Tam (higher pitch)
Percussion 3 - Brake Drum, Sound Plate, Tam-Tam (lower pitch), Kick Bass Drum (laid flat), Concert Bass Drum