Includes score and tape (CD).
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Review from Percussive Notes (2021):
“X” from Alphabet
Janis Mercer
“X” is part of the Alphabet series by Janis Mercer. Included is a CD with fixed electronic accompaniment, so it is not necessary to have a second performer with the soloist. About the series, the composer writes, “Alphabet for solo percussionist and fixed electronics is an ongoing series of short, transportable pieces, each movement comprising one or more different instruments in the pursuit of musical attributes of various letters.”
Indeed, there are many “x”s included in the graphic-style notation. The CD part, named “Tape,” is included on the score, in tandem with the solo snare drum, so that the performer is sure to know what to play at the appropriate time. Additionally, there are timings for the musical events written above the score, so the performer can be certain of where on the CD certain accompaniment events occur, presumably to assist in not only performance, but efficient practice, as well.
“X” is an excellent work for any soloist who wishes to perform music on traditional snare drum, as well as traveling professionals who wish to keep setup to a minimum, while still retaining an interesting variety of musical sounds in their performances.
—Cassie Bunting
