Fanfare on “Dies Irae” (2015)

duration c. 00:04:30
for 2 timpanists, 9 drums

Premiere:

SCTI Broadcast Performance:

Program Note:

This piece was composed for my senior recital at St. Olaf College in March 2015. My program, which heavily explored eschatological concepts, needed an appropriate opener. Nothing heralds cataclysm quite like 9 timpani bombastically declaiming “Dies Irae” tutta forza. In this fanfare, I strove to maintain a melodic foundation while exploring technical and rhythmic elements of timpani technique. As such, I shied away from extended techniques à la Carter, so as not to obfuscate the transformations of the source chant melody. By using hocket scoring, I was able to reduce pedaling, further contributing to pitch clarity and facilitating the performance of intricate rhythms. Nonetheless, a variety of mallets and specific indications of which drums certain passages should be played on add timbral depth to this fanfare.

Despite its unconventional instrumentation and range requirements, Fanfare for “Dies Irae” is a rare and rewarding opportunity for two timpanists to have an ensemble experience on the same instrument. It is well suited to the university setting, where a large number of drums and interested timpanists are likely to be available, and is perfect for percussion ensemble concerts and percussion recitals.

Performance History: