Escapade

This colorful and inventive composition explores a sequence of emotional states which develop over a talea, a fixed pattern of time values. Except during the extended saxophone cadenza, this repeating rhythmic pattern can be heard throughout the work in varying degrees of intensity. At times it is forcibly presented by the musicians moving in rhythmic unison. On other occasions the talea is fragmented and distributed among the players. Frequently this rhythmic pattern is embedded in the presentation of melodic material similar to the technique of isorhythm as it was employed by 14th-century masters such as Machaut and de Vitry. The continuous variation of the unifying talea coupled with the work’s intriguing melodies and exotic timbral contrasts, make this an accessible and enjoyable concert work. Percussion distribution:
Percussion 1: Timpani (4), temple blocks, snare drum, and 2 suspended cymbals
Percussion 2: Orchestra bells, xylophone, maracas, triangle, 2 cow bells, suspended cymbal, and chime tree
Percussion 3: Vibraphone, tam-tam, roto toms, and claves
Percussion 4: Marimba, guiro, and 2 suspended cymbals. “By far the night’s most memorable piece.” – The Los Angeles Times.