Solar Flurries

SOLAR FLURRIES was written in 2020 for the International Marimba Orchestra, Gordon Stout (conductor), and The Center for Mallet Percussion Research (Kutztown, PA). As I sat gazing out the window and starting to compose this work on a sunny spring day, it started to lightly snow. Through my recent marimba quartet music, I've been exploring ways I can re-imagine electronic dance music. Without incorporating other percussion and actual electronics, this work attempts to exploit the depth of color and energy that are possible by the marimba ensemble, invoking a fun night at the disco. Solar Flurries begins as if you've just arrived at the club and the door was suddenly thrown open on the dance floor. Through driving bass, rhythmic intensity, sweeping and splashy gestures, and electro-style phasing of thematic material, it'll take you on a high-energy trip around the disco ball! Solar Flurries is available through Heartland Marimba Publications in the 8-part marimba orchestra version or the smaller ensemble version for 4 or 5 players. ~ M.C.