Assignment 4: Listening Log

LISTENING LOG

Timpani

‪"The Tragedy of a Young Soldier" by Christopher D. Walker

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"Carmina Burana part 1" Raleigh Symphony Orchestra - Timpani

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"No. II Funk Timpani Solo" composed by Todd Ukena

These three pieces are very varied examples of the character of timpani. Carl Off's epic Carmina Burana part 1 (1936) shows the devastating tension that the timpani can display.  In contrast, Todd Ukena’s No.II Funk (2001) displays the more rhythmic and melodic side of this instrument. 

What was fascinating about all three of these pieces was the extreme talent required by the players.  Their ability to change pitch and reach for each note, plus keep perfect time, is extremely admirable. 

Xylophone

‪Sparks (Kenneth Alford) - xylophone solo

I found this piece very interesting because I had barely considered the use of the xylophone as a solo instrument, let alone one to lead an entire jazz ensemble!  This composition really demonstrates the entire character of this instrument in terms of dynamics, range and melodic values. Much like the timpani, I was very impressed with ability of the player.

Marimba

‪Velocities (1990) by Joseph Schwantner

The wide range of this instrument is really shown during this piece, but what struck me was the unusual noise that the Marimba makes, almost giving an underwater sound.  The dreamy and magical properties of this instrument could also be heard at different points during this piece.  The use of four beaters also displays a very versatile and agile ability to this instrument's character. 

Crotales

‪Waltz for Crotales Number Three

The high-pitched sound of the crotales can almost be an assault on the eardrums at times!  However, tones in the high register of this instrument are probably just another unfamiliar tone to which our ears have become accustomed, much like dissonant tones.   Of course, the ringing of this instrument would be a very useful sound in some compositions and could be used to represent many different ideas.  Waltz for Crotales Number Three however, was a very calm and melodic piece in which I’m sure dynamics would play a large part. 

LISTENING LOG – A study of Bach’s Fugue’s and Inventions

I found Bach’s Fugue and Inventions to be a real eye opener in terms of the complexity that simple transformations can create in a piece.  I listened to many pieces of this nature by Bach but studied Invention No.4 in D minor (BWV 775), Fugue in A minor & Fugue in G minor in more detail.   Whilst following the scores of each of these pieces it was clear to see how various transformations had been added to provide complexity, depth and texture to the overall feel of the piece.