A La Samba is a highly energetic samba like ensemble work for 6 percussionists. There are open section in the piece for individual improvised solos. Groove oriented sections are contrasted by sections of ensemble rhythmic passages.
Number of Players: 6
Difficulty: Grade 3+
Instrumentation:
Player I: Xylophone, Bells, Gourd
Player II: Marimba Triangle, Cowbell
Player III: 4 Timpani
Player IV: Timbales
Player V: Bongos
Player VI: Maracas
Director of the Percussion Ensemble, MITCHELL PETERS, was formerly Principal Timpanist and Percussionist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra. Prior to his appointment in 1969, he was principal percussionist with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Peters has recorded extensively with both the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, in addition to various appearances on motion picture and television soundtracks. He was a member of the Philharmonic New Music Group, and has performed and recorded numerous contemporary works. As author and composer, Peters' percussion works and instructional materials are highly regarded throughout the United States and abroad. He owns and operates a music publishing company, which handles percussion works exclusively. He has recently completed highly acclaimed method books for Timpani and Mallet instruments, published by the Alfred Music Publishing Company. In 2006 he was awarded a "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the Sabian Cymbal Company. He was also on the faculty of the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara from 1990-2002. His B.M. and M.M. are from the Eastman School of Music, where he also received the Performers Certificate.
