Clave Variations

An exciting quartet for soprano saxophone, clarinet, percussion, and string bass featuring the traditions and practices of the Latin style fused with elements of concert music. A strong feature for the percussionist as well as the ensemble players.

Program Notes

The clave pattern is used in many styles of Latin music as the rhythmic foundation, such is the case here. This quartet begins in a straightforward/traditional manner and evolves with melodic material graduating into a development of themes and motives. The meter continues to fluctuate as the piece expands though the use of interjecting riffs, rhythms, and contrapuntal musical ideas into a climactic ending. I wrote this percussion feature for a chamber music recital with the intent of having challenging solo sections and ensemble passages for all members. — T.B.

Grade Level: 5
Copyright: 2021
Number of Players: 4
Duration: 4:00
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
Type: Quartet
Category: Percussion; Woodwind

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Instrumentation

Soprano Saxophone & Claves
B-flat Clarinet & Claves
Percussion: Claves, 3 Concert Toms, Suspended Cymbal
String Bass (or Marimba [5-octave])