A bittersweet Venetian waltz, a glowing Romantic interlude, and a motoric but tuneful Minimalist finale comprise this Suite for 5 Marimbas (playable on four instruments). Suitable for high school and college ensembles, the suite offers contrasting moods that highlight the beauty and aural versatility of the marimba ensemble.

Genre: Percussion Ensemble | # of Players: 5
Level: Medium | Duration: 9:30

Instrumentation
Marimba I (4-octave)*
Marimba II (4-octave)
Marimba III (4-octave)
Marimba IV (4.3-octave)
Marimba V (4.3-octave)*

*Marimba 1 and V may share one 4.3 octave instrument

Program Notes
The Suite for 5 Marimbas began as a pitched percussion orchestration exercise during my undergraduate music studies. I had a great time writing out the first section of the Venetian-esque waltz, and my professor encouraged me to expand it into a piece. I later added a slow movement for contrast, while a failed attempt at a Techno electronic track provided the raw material for the rhythmic third movement.

After years of grappling with a sense of obligation to create serious, respectable music, my experiences in performing and teaching have taught me the value of making music just because it's fun to do, and it's in this spirit that I'm sharing the Suite with you. I love the wonderful, rich sound of a marimba ensemble and hope that you find this music an enjoyable journey!