Includes score and erratum.
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Review from Percussive Notes (2021):
Shadows
David Gibson
“Shadows” is a massive 15-minute, complex, single-movement composition in which three multiple percussionists have over 40 percussion instruments divided among them — including a celesta. The 15-page score would need to be mounted on stiff cardboard in order for page turns to be minimized. There are numerous tempo shifts from quarter-note equals 44 to quarter note equals 126. Generally speaking, there is a unity among the three performers with timbral similarities (e.g., three keyboard percussion sounding at the same time; three membraned percussion instruments sounding at same time) providing unity among the performers.
Starting with an opening section in 6/4 at a tempo marking of 126, the performers are primarily performing the three keyboard percussion instruments. There is a cadence at measure 18 before the performers resume at a slower pace — yet with new musical ideas and motives permeating the composite sounds. This type of sectional compositional technique continues throughout the 255-measure work.
“Shadows” is a very difficult multiple-percussion trio, which demands the highest level of performers with a mutual commitment of exploring unusual timbres and textures in percussion.
—Jim Lambert
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