Parallel Dimensions

Written to be performed at the Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic, Parallel Dimensions is a double concerto for percussion septet. The two solo parts feature the players on xylophone, vibraphone, toms, timbales, & congas. Perfect for showcasing the talents of two of your students!

Program Notes

Parallel Dimensions is a double concerto for percussion septet. The piece opens with a colorful blend of percussive textures which immediately captures your attention. The two featured percussionists on Vibraphone and Xylophone quickly take over and trade off several “feature” sections, sometimes in unison figures and occasionally playing off of one another. After a brief transition, a complete color change is introduced with the soloists on Timbales and Congas and more of a “groove” is introduced. Once again the two featured players square off against one another with a few intersections of material as their own musical lines wander into each other from time to time. After several short bursts from each player there is a return to the “A” material on Vibraphone and Xylophone. The piece ends with a flurry of excitement and a burst of speed! - JKN

Grade Level: 3
Copyright: 2011
Number of Players: 7
Duration: 4:30
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
Type: Septet
Category: Percussion

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Instrumentation

Percussion 1 (very high concert tom, xylophone, timbales, cowbell)
Percussion 2 (high concert tom, vibraphone, 2 congas, China cymbal, cowbell)
Percussion 3 (medium high concert tom, cabasa, flexatone, suspended cymbal, splash cymbal, cowbell)
Percussion 4 (medium concert tom, egg shaker, vibraslap, ratchet, wind chimes, cowbell)
Percussion 5 (medium low concert tom, trangle, cricket effect, bulb horn, tambourine, hi-hat, siren whistle, cowbell)
Percussion 6 (low concert tom, bongos, slapstick, castanets, cowbell)
Percussion 7 (muffled bass drum, cowbell)