For one marimba and three players. A modern twist on the classic church hymn, Amazing Grace is an unforgettable experience for players and audiences alike. This piece was performed at the funeral of Jack McKenzie.
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Review from Percussive Notes:
Rick Kvistad – Amazing Grace
Originally written for PAS founding member Jack H. McKenzie’s funeral, Rick Kvistad’s arrangement of “Amazing Grace” is honest and uncomplicated, and it would be equally at home on the concert stage or in front of the pews (space permitting, of course). In calling for three performers to share one marimba (which I interpret as a nod to his days with the Blackearth Percussion Group), Kvistad provides ample opportunity for the players to explore balance, cohesion, and phrasing. This short arrangement requires little in terms of technical ability (it is possible that even middle school students could play the notes, provided they can read bass clef), but the inherent demands of artistry and interpretation make this a project best suited for more mature performers, even at under three minutes in length. At such close quarters on the instrument, breathing and moving together will be essential to any successful performance, and will add to the work’s charming intimacy. This arrangement is one I would recommend adding to most libraries, to have on hand as an elegant and sincere option for a commemorative or memorial performance.
—Brian Graiser
