2X2

Taiki Nishihara

General Info

Year: 2012
Duration: c. 7:00
Difficulty: (see Ratings for explanation)
Publisher: Edition Switzer
Cost: Score and Parts - $0.00   |   Score Only - $0.00

Instrumentation

Player I: Marimba
Player II: Marimba
Player III: Marimba
Player IV: Marimba

Can be shared and performed on two marimbas

Program Notes

Review

Reminiscent of the energy and excitement of "Hook" by Graham Fitkin, this marimba quartet is filled with interlocking sixteenth notes, block chord punctuations, and a palatable groove. With the exception of the last ten measures of four-note chords from two of the players, most of the piece can be effectively performed with two mallets.

After a powerful opening of block eighth notes from all performers, the piece begins a conversation of sorts with two players performing a continuous sixteenth-note melodic line that is peppered with occasional accents. The character of this line shifts to a syncopated eighth-note section, which signals the conversational trade-o# to the other two marimbists. After this second section, the remainder of the piece showcases all four players with equal contribution of melody, harmony, and groove.

While there are scattered moments of repetition that is indicative of dance-like music of this vein, the overall character of this six-minute work is varied enough to hold the interest of even an experienced and informed percussion ensemble enthusiast. The accessible style and mood even lends itself to the addition of rhythm instruments for university groups looking to spice up their concerts with an audience grabbing opening selection.

—Joshua D. Smith

Recent Performances

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Works for Percussion by this Composer

2X2 - Marimba Quartet
Rush Out - Percussion Duo
Gymnastic Games - Percussion Quintet