Face for drum set duet.
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Review from Percussive Notes (2026):
Reviewed by: Josh Armstrong
This duet for two drumsets includes triangles as well as various types of cymbals. While written for the drumset, the piece is more representative of a multiple-percussion work, meaning, the piece is not based around grooves, or what one might typically think of when they see a drumset in the instrument list. The piece is meant to symbolize a person looking into the mirror and into themselves. The physical performance is just as important as the musical performance, and the composer says “visual possibilities are plentiful; explore them and use good taste.”
The work is in the 20th-century aleatoric school. Repetitions are to be determined beforehand, and some even during the rehearsal. In some sections the performer is given the rhythm, but not the drums, and in others it’s vice-versa. The piece relies heavily on improvisatory skills and an ability to converse back and forth as players. It also uses a variety of striking implements including triangle beaters, drumsticks, and timpani mallets.
Overall, this would be a great piece for a graduate-level or professional recital. The work would benefit students who need to work on making musical choices and performing with another player. Through the improvisatory nature, the performers would gain experience in communicating with each other, and the audience, through the drums. David Macbride has taken the drumset, an instrument typically associated with jazz and groove-based work, and used it in a more concert setting, helping young drummers explore music further.
