Sanderl-Placid Landscapes (SP)-4M OS

Initially conceived as an improvisatory idea, the melodic/harmonic materials utilized in Rob Sanderl's Placid Landscapes are based in F minor, and subsequently shift down by step to Eb and Db. The piece is in three sections that clearly contrast each other, yet each is based on the original harmonic building blocks stated from the very beginning.

The accompanying parts are built around the bass marimba patterns and compliment them by creating a dense counterpoint that is very rhythmic, yet harmonically static. The bass part requires a performer with solid four-mallet technique and above average endurance - double and triple lateral strokes are involved almost continuously.

The upper parts (players 1-3) are much easier technically, but far more difficult rhythmically. The second and third portions of the work require very carefully sequenced ideas that are linear in construction. An improvised drum part (djembe or cajon) can be added that should groove heavily, and weave itself around the rhythmic ideas presented in all four marimba parts. college/professional.

Challenging marimba quartet - ca. 6' 03" in duration.