Three for Marimba, by Thomas Albert includes one score.
Print size: Letter (8.5 x 11")
Review from Percussive Notes (2021):
Three for Marimba
Thomas Albert
Originally written for a microtonal marimba, “Three for Marimba” has been adapted to a traditional keyboard with the quartertone elements changed to chromatics. The piece is in three movements: “Perpetuum Mobile” uses continuous eighth notes in an additive process 12-tone pattern; “Interlude” is chordal with all notes rolled; “Solace Forsaken or ‘What if Florence Foster Jenkins Played Ragtime?’” was written to be fun and is based on Scott Joplin’s “Solace.”
“Three for Marimba” is a fairly standard marimba solo, with three distinct movements and standard playing technique. The uniqueness of the chromaticism makes for a contemporary take on the traditional three-movement form. The real benefit to this piece is the playful nature and the fact that it is written for a 4-octave marimba. For intermediate/advanced players looking for a limited-range piece without needing to transpose, this fits the bill.
Without being too long, “Three for Marimba” has plenty of room for musical interpretation and individual expression, and it would be a nice addition to a marimba recital.
—Marilyn K. Clark Silva
