K A R A L Y N S C H U B R I N G Lua Azul

for flute, piano, & latin percussion

Program Note

I was inspired to compose this piece by my increasing fascination with Latin music, especially Bossa Nova style. Lua Azul was inspired by the energy of this very danceable music, and the title is Portuguese for "Blue Moon." Like the traditional phrase, "Once in a blue moon," Lua Azul celebrates the little miracles that happen every so often, sometimes out of the blue. Duration: ca. 5’

A Note on Percussion Setup:

One of the joys I have experienced in working with different percussionists to bring this piece to life is that every player brings his/her own flare to the basic Samba groove that is the heartbeat of this piece. Such artistry is encouraged!

While the middle, slow section of the piece is written with a set instrumentation in mind (Suspended Cymbal, Mark Tree), the faster, groove-driven sections that bookend the piece are more flexible. The premiere of the piece included bongos and congas, with LP Finger Shot Shakers added at letter O. We have also experimented with adapted tambourine and even drum kit. For the sections at h=96bpm, an effective instrument selection will have at least one high and one low pitch, have a crisp, non-rattling sound, and hold roots in the Latin musical tradition.

For more music, please visit karalynschubring.com.

Percussion Instrument List:

-Bongos -Congas -Suspended Cymbal -Mark Tree

-Optional: LP Finger Shot Shakers

Beaters: -Felt Mallets -Brushes

Please note that the percussionist is free to embellish any repetitive groove, while all hits are to be observed at exactly the notated rhythm.

For more music, please visit karalynschubring.com.