For percussion trio, includes score and parts. According to Malay legend, the A Bao A Qu is a being of almost pure sensitivity and has existed since the beginning of time. This sonorous percussion trio is a movement from the suite based on entries from The Book of Imaginary Beings by Jorge Luis Borges. A newly engraved study score comes with separate parts for ease of performance. Composer, Mark Saya, "makes his effects by a few well-chosen timbres deployed in space and across silence with a precise control of rhythmic eloquence and of small but telling color changes." (The New Yorker) Duration: ca. 5'
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Review from Percussive Notes:
Mark Saya – A Bao a Qu
“A Bao A Qu” is a wonderful exploration of contemporary sounds based on the Malay legend of the same name. The A Bao A Qu is a being of almost pure sensitivity, capable of perceiving and reflecting every shade of the human soul. It has no distinct shape of its own, and its one purpose in life is to accompany human souls on their quest for nirvana, which awaits at the top of the Tower of Victory. The A Bao A Qu and the soul ascend the staircase together; as the top of the tower is approached, the creature’s shape grows toward completion-perfection. This sonorous percussion trio is a movement from the suite based on entries from The Book of Imaginary Beings by Jorge Luis Borges, first championed by the Percussion Group Cincinnati. At the heart of the piece is the prepared piano, which two of the three players utilize. The composer gives very clear and meticulous instructions. In addition to the complex piano preparations, a very strong grasp of chamber music and ensemble performance will be required to perform this piece. While parts are supplied, it might be in the best interest to perform this piece off of the score. I highly recommend this piece. It is one of the best in the percussion trio repertoire and would be very suitable for a graduate level or professional ensemble.
—Joe Millea
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