by J.S. Bach/Albert Ellmenreich, arr. Brian Slawson
6 players
Instrumentation: Glockenspiel, Xylophone, Vibraphone, 2 marimbas—(1) 4-octave, (1) low C, 3 timpani (32", 29", 26"), Drumset, Accessories (woodblock, triangle, 2 alarm clocks, 3 cowbells, temple blocks, ratchet, siren whistle)
Children's Medley is one of several masterworks arranged for percussion ensemble by Brian Slawson on the Grammy-nominated CD "Bach on Wood." This medley is comprised of three sections. The first two sections, Mussette in D and Minuet in G, are both from J.S. Bach’s Notebook for Anna Magdalena (1725), a collection of pieces compiled by Bach for his second wife. Spinning Song (the third section of this medley) was composed in the mid-1800s by German composer Albert Elmenreich. Its familiar charm has been enjoyed by generations of piano hobbyists both young and old.
Arranged for percussion sextet, each section presents a unique and distinctive sound. Much of its character is driven by the colorful orchestration and the variety of multipercussion setups requiring some nimble instrument and/or implement switches. In the hands of a well-trained ensemble, the charm built into Children's Medley will jump off the stage and into the laps of enthusiastic listeners!
This piece comes with a full, bound score and includes a CD-Rom containing an audio recording and all individual parts available for printing.
