Black Mamba (2013-2014) |
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Commissioned by the ARC Percussion Trio
The Black Mamba is one of the deadliest snakes in the world. Indigenous to sub-Saharan Africa, it is a formidable foe to anyone unfortunate enough to encounter one. Just one bite from this serpent can kill an adult in as little as 20 minutes. This piece serves as a type of story work like those told in numerous African tribal cultures. These stories would often be accompanied by drums and other sorts of percussive sounds to add life and rhythm to the story. This piece tells the story of a hunter who encounters a Black Mamba and is subsequently bitten by the snake. The remainder of this short piece tells of his desperate struggle to make it back to his village to get help. Alas, it is too late for the poor soul, and we conclude the work with the sound of his heartbeat slowly fading away as he reaches the outskirts of his village.
The Black Mamba is one of the deadliest snakes in the world. Indigenous to sub-Saharan Africa, it is a formidable foe to anyone unfortunate enough to encounter one. Just one bite from this serpent can kill an adult in as little as 20 minutes. This piece serves as a type of story work like those told in numerous African tribal cultures. These stories would often be accompanied by drums and other sorts of percussive sounds to add life and rhythm to the story. This piece tells the story of a hunter who encounters a Black Mamba and is subsequently bitten by the snake. The remainder of this short piece tells of his desperate struggle to make it back to his village to get help. Alas, it is too late for the poor soul, and we conclude the work with the sound of his heartbeat slowly fading away as he reaches the outskirts of his village.
Instrument List
- 3 kick drums
- 2 different sized congas - brake drum - djembe - bongos - 2 different sized concert toms - Zildjian spiral trash cymbal or lg. sizzle china cymbal |
- 4 cowbells, mounted; all different pitches
- 2 different pitched LP vibratones - Conch Shell - Rain Stick - Ankle Rattles - Piccolo Woodblock - Large Shaker - Spring Drum |