by Eric Rath
12 players
Instrumentation: Crotales, Glockenspiel, Chimes, 2 vibraphones, 5 marimbas*—(2) 4-octave, (2) low A, (1) low C** , Two timpani (26", 29"), Piano
*Three marimbas (two low A and low C) can be used in place of five marimbas.
**In the absence of a low C marimba, a low F part as a substitution is included.
Scherzo is an arrangement of the famous "pizzicato movement" from one of Tchaikovsky's most revered masterpieces, Symphony No. 4. Though written for 12 players, at the heart of this arrangement is a marimba quintet. It is punctuated and varied, sounding completely at home in the percussion ensemble.
Eric Rath has beautifully maintained the integrity of the original through simplicity. Marimbas mimic the pizzicato strings, the metallic instruments imitate the woodwinds, and the brass family is represented by marimbas using dead strokes. This tasteful and colorful arrangement will bring a refreshing addition of classic literature to any percussion ensemble concert.
This piece comes with a bound score and includes an mp3 recording and all individual parts available for printing in pdf format on the included CD-Rom.
