Hold Fast

A challenge to the listener to "hold fast" to the underlying rhythmic pulse established in the first sections of this work. Each section highlights different combinations of the wood and metal instruments as the pulse grows indistinct and is eventually lost. Suddenly, all players are caught up in a surge of power led by the timpanist. Driving rhythms force the music toward the climax as the ensemble revels in the restored pulse.

Program Notes

The title Hold Fast is literally a challenge to the listener to "hold fast" to the underlying rhythmic pulse established in the first sections of the work. This pulse is slowly usurped by changing meters and unequal divisions of the measures. Each section highlights different combinations of the wood and metal instruments. The pulse grows indistinct and is eventually lost. Finally, the music retreats in energy and volume as the players of the xylophone, vibraphone, and one marimba attempt to reestablish the pulse. Rolled chords by the remaining marimbists echo the initial harmonies of the work. Suddenly, all players are caught up in a surge of power led by the timpanist. The driving rhythms force the music toward the climax as the ensemble revels in the restored pulse.

Grade Level: 4
Copyright: 1994
Number of Players: 10
Duration: 6:30
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
Category: Percussion

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Instrumentation

Player 1 (Bells)
Player 2 (Chimes)
Player 3 (Vibraphone)
Player 4 (Xylophone)
Player 5 (4,3-oct Marimba)
Player 6 (4.3-oct Marimba)
Player 7 (4.3-oct Marimba)
Player 8 (5-oct Marimba)
Player 9 (4 Timpani)
Player 10 (Triangle, Suspended Cymbal, Bass Drum)