"Second Wind" is an exciting and dynamic piece for percussion ensemble. Perfect for an advanced high school group or a developing undergraduate ensemble, this composition provides a fun yet challenging experience for each player.

Second Wind (Perc Ens 8) - Dan Moell

A “gyre” is a large circular current in the ocean. There are five known gyres on Earth, hence, "The Sixth Gyre." The piece builds itself around two vertically staged marimbas that all eight performers play. Throughout the piece, performers move between the two marimbas and other keyboard and battery instruments, adding to the current-like motion.

The Sixth Gyre (Perc Ens 8) - Jonah Sendlin

"Release" was composed during a period of personal loss. The inspiration came first in the form of motives, followed rapidly by a rhythmic score and then orchestration for the ensemble. Embedded in the piece are both the darker and lighter aspects of loss and tragedy, a mingling of anger, fear, freedom, growth, etc., all of which should be emphasized in performance.

Release [excerpt] (Percussion Octet) - Dave Hollinden

"Reckless," defined as a disregard for consequences or unthinking boldness, is a brash & exciting battery percussion octet with wide assortment of instruments.

Reckless [excerpt] (Percussion Octet) - Dave Hollinden

What would it sound like if Claude Debussy had been able to score for the modern percussion ensemble? Dwayne Rice’s new orchestration of Debussy’s beloved "Clair de Lune" attempts to answer the question by faithfully and stunningly recreating the work for keyboard percussion ensembles. This new transcription employs the full color palette of the contemporary percussion ensemble and is an instant hit for performers and audiences alike.

Clair de Lune (Percussion Ensemble 8) - Debussy, arr. Dwyane Rice

"Tilt" is a dynamic percussion octet that features a stereophonic setup of two percussion quartets “tilting” the musical ideas between sides of the stage. All eight players play (and share) both pitched and non-pitched instruments.

Tilt (percussion octet) - Lucas Garner

This intermediate work for 7-8 percussionists tells the story of Theseus’s ship as it approaches harbor and repairs begin. As you strip away broken parts and replace with new ones, the story of the ships’ adventures are told. Once the repairs are completed the ship sails away ready for its next adventure. 

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