As Before, for solo marimba, includes one score.
Print size: 11 x 14.5"
David Macbride – As Before
“As Before” was written for William Moersch in 1978, but not published until 2018. I am glad to have the pleasure of discovering it. The piece begins and ends with a chorale requiring great dynamic contrast as well as some independent rolls. The section immediately following is highlighted by dead strokes and independent rolls. The middle section is highly virtuosic in nature. The second page of the score is covered almost exclusively with thirty-second notes and sextuplets and requires great technical facility. An alternate version of the second page is included with the score, which changes the permutations to make them even more complex, yet more musically satisfying. The piece, as a whole, is somewhat reminiscent of Druckman’s “Reflections on the Nature of Water,” which was premiered by Moersch. This is a great solo for the advanced marimbist looking for a recital or performance piece that is not well-known in the repertoire. There are technical and musical challenges that should leave performers and audiences satisfied.
—Justin Bunting
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