Moore, J.-Unchained (SP)-M/P

Unchained by Joe W. Moore III was written for the composer's friend Oliver Molina who is currently Assistant Director of Bands at University High School in Orlando, FL. The piece is both musically and technically demanding for the soloist as well as the accompanying performers. Unchained, as defined, means to be set free. Moore used the title and the definition as his primary compositional inspiration. The virtuosity of the solo marimba part represents the idea of being set free while selected sections of the piece and the utilization of certain percussion instruments represent being chained or held back. The melodic and harmonic language of the work is derived from the pitches contained in the A-flat major and A major triads. Unchained is an exciting and enjoyable piece for the performers and audience members alike. Duration: 10'20"

Instrumentation:
Solo Marimba (5-octave)
Percussion 1: Vibraphone (shared), Bass Drum, Woodblock, Temple Blocks, Suspended Cymbal
Percussion 2: Vibraphone (shared), 3 Toms, Woodblock, Tambourine, China Cymbal
Percussion 3: Bells, 2 Congas, Woodblock, Bongos, Splash Cymbal