Dance of Riddles

Description

Flute 1, Flute 2, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet in Bb 1, Clarinet in Bb 2, Bass Clarinet, Alto Saxophone 1, Alto Saxophone 2, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Trumpet in Bb 1, Trumpet in Bb 2, Horn in F 1, Horn in F 2, Trombone 1, Trombone 2, Euphonium, Bb Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion, Marimba, Timpani, Percussion 1, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Suspended Cymbal, Vibraslap, Percussion 2, Bongos, Claves, Agogo Bells, Triangle, Cabasa — Although this piece might best be described as a hodgepodge of different Latin styles, I like to think of it as a musical version of the cuisine found in my neck of the woods here in Central South Texas known as "Tex-Mex." Whether it depicts one region or another of Central or South America is, to me, one of the "riddles." But the title refers mostly to some of the trickier rhythmical constructions found in the piece, especially in the section beginning at m. 61. The seeming randomness of the triplets and duplets here will be best executed with close attention to the articulations. Throughout the piece, follow the lead of the percussion played with "relaxed precision." (Another riddle?) Feel free to move as you play; don't be shy, this is a dance! The audience will love it. So enjoy performing this conundrum (with a little salsa or hot sauce of your choice) and may your audience dance in the aisles! Dance of Riddles is a musical depiction of the blended styles of cuisine native to the composer's home in Central South Texas, a blend of cultural flavors and spices known as "Tex-Mex." The title also refers to tricky rhythmical constructions in the piece, including seemingly random triplets and duplets sprinkled with a variety of articulations.

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