Ballet for Bouncing Balls

by Montgomery Hatch

5 players

Instrumentation: 3 large basketballs, 2 small basketballs, 4 handballs

Composed with the idea that rhythmic patterns can be seen as well as heard, Ballet for Bouncing Balls is a creative and fun new work by New York City Opera percussionist Montgomery Hatch. Literally comprised of the various sound effects of balls bouncing on the floor, the piece employs five players who use a creative array of techniques including dribbling, slapping, juggling, tossing, and of course…bouncing! There is an inherent element of theater and dance present in the work and performers are encouraged to explore it. Rhythmic motives are generally simple and groove-based, and mappings of suggested staging ideas are included with the score. 

Ballet for Bouncing Balls premiered at the 2010 Juilliard Summer Percussion Seminar. The piece will surely provide unique and creative entertainment for audiences of all ages.  

This piece comes with a full, bound score and includes a CD-Rom containing a reference video and all individual parts available for printing.