Marimba Music

"For one year, between the fall of 1970 and the fall of 1971, I worked on what turned out to be the longest piece I have ever composed. Drumming lasts from 55 to 75 minutes (depending on the number of repeats played) and is divided into four parts that are performed without pause. The first part is for four parts that are performed without pause. The first part is for four pairs of tuned bongo drums, stand-mounted and played with sticks; the second, for three marimbas played by nine players...

Paul Smadbeck's Rhythm Song is one of the most popular solo marimba works of all time and has been re-engraved in a clearer, easier to read and understand, composer-approved edition. It has elements of African, Latin, Gamelan and Jazz Fusion. Can be performed as an unaccompanied solo or with any number of doublings in unison or at the octaves. Great for marimbistic get-togethers when several players know the work. You can hear the composer performing it in his album "Music for Marimba" or on...

"Firefish was inspired by my dream of a fish that lives in the waters of the ocean, but whose body is composed completely of fire. The Firefish is agile, graceful, and inextinguishable. Whether jumping above the waves or swimming deep below the surface, the flames of the Firefish burn with a bright intensity. I like the idea of the Firefish, the idea of being inextinguishable, no matter what surrounds you." - Blake Tyson Performed by Héctor Rodríguez

The 1st Prelude of Michael Burritt's "Preludes 1-5" is also known as "Moderate". Michael Burritt's Preludes are much anticipated pieces that appeal to players and audiences alike. They encompass a wide variety of stylistic writing, as Burritt exploits the technical and lyrical capabilities of the instrument. Performed by Héctor Rodríguez.

"Sara's Song was written in 2005 for one of my dear friends daughters wedding, Sara Sartarelli. When the family originally approached me about writing a piece for the ceremony, I didn't realized they were looking for a work to serve as the processional music. This immediately became a daunting task. I was of course honored to have the opportunity. I believe the short work represents my feelings for the family as well as the emotional significance of this beautiful occasion. Sara's Song is...