J.S. Bach
Goldberg Variation 28 duet for mallet percussion
arranged by Brian Slawson
Goldberg Variation 28. By J.S. Bach, arranged by Brian Slawson Š 2009 Tapspace Publications LLC (ASCAP), Portland, Oregon. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. Printed in USA. www.tapspace.com
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TSPCD-05
Performance Notes HISTORY Unlike many of J.S. Bach’s other works, The Goldberg Variations were actually published in his lifetime (1741). Following the aria that starts the piece are thirty masterful variations specified in the system of figured bass. Hence, the variations are derived from the bass line and chord progression, not the melody. In addition to the fact that every third variation of the series is a canon, there are ingenious patterns and formulas throughout, making for a fascinating analytical study. In addition, these works sound amazing – once again proving Bach to be as consistently creative as any composer in history. ENSEMBLE
Goldberg Variation 28 is recommended for performance on two 5-octave marimbas. A 4 1/3-octave (low A) instrument may be used when substituting the notes in parenthesis. Medium to hard mallets should be utilized for a clear, articulate tone. Primarily, these parts are performable with 2 mallets, however if Player 1 chooses to use 4 mallets, the notes in parenthesis in measures 7 and 8 may be added. The absence of contrasting dynamics and a metronomic approach to the rhythm will create a machine-like quality, unique to this composition. In order to lessen the margin for error, be sure to keep your hands low to the keyboard and minimize arm movements by lifting from the wrist. Practice slowly, assuring accuracy, before attempting to perform at a brisk tempo. To enhance the visuals, experiment with my suggested stickings (uniform but in mirror image) and fill in the rest to your liking. Remember...a pencil is a musician’s best friend. - Brian Slawson
About Brian Slawson Since his scholarship studies at The Juilliard School, Brian Slawson has continued to pioneer innovative paths in percussion. Grammy-nominated as ‘Best New Classical Artist,’ Brian has appeared on NBC’s Tonight Show, Entertainment Tonight, The CBS Morning News and NPR’s “All Things Considered.” Mr. Slawson has an extensive discography, including solo releases on the Sony/CBS and Belltone labels. His smash debut, Bach On Wood hit Billboard’s Top 10 and remains one of the world’s premier vehicles for exposing new audiences to classical music. Brian has shared the stage with classical luminaries Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland, recorded with pop icons from Stevie Ray Vaughan to Marie Osmond and punctuated jokes for comedians Bill Maher, Eddie Murphy, and Jerry Seinfeld. He is the voice of “Gusto the Bulldog” in Warner Bros. Music Expressions and a featured artist in McGrawHill’s Spotlight on Music. In addition to serving as Principal Timpanist of the Brevard Symphony Orchestra, Brian’s multi-media company, Slawsongs, has created award-winning custom music for feature films, television and radio. Mr. Slawson proudly endorses Ludwig-Musser, Zildjian, Vic Firth, Remo, Grover Pro Percussion, Rhythm Tech, Alternate Mode and Sibelius. His teachers have included Saul Goodman, Buster Bailey, Alexander Lepak, David Smith and Drew Grouse. Legendary vibraphonist, Lionel Hampton, described Brian Slawson as “one of the finest percussionists to come along in many years.” Modern Drummer magazine calls Brian “a visionary, be it performer, producer or composer.”
Level: Med-Advanced Approximate playing time: 2’30”
Goldberg Variation 28
J.S. Bach Arranged by Brian Slawson
duet for mallet percussion
q = 78
Marimba 2
4
M1
M2
7
M1
M2
Marimba 1
© 2009 Tapspace Publications LLC (ASCAP), Portland, Oregon. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. Printed in USA.
Goldberg Variation 28 - arr. Slawson
2
R
M1
M2
14
M1
M2
L
M2
16
M1
11
L
R R
21
M1
M2
TSPCD-05
Goldberg Variation 28 - arr. Slawson
3
23
M1
M2
26
M1
M2
31
M1
M2
rit.
(2nd x only)
29
M1
M2
TSPCD-05
www.tapspace.com