Whirlwind (percussion ensemble) by David R. Gillingham

Performed by the University of Texas-Arlington Percussion Ensemble, directed by Michael Varner
Video Recorded and edited by Josh Johnson
Published by C. Alan Publications (www.c-alanpublications.com)
"Whirlwind" is based on motives derived from a mixture of the Lydian and Mixolydian modes using the lower pentachord of the Lydian scale and the upper quadrachord of the Mixolydian scale.
The work is virtually perpetual motion driven by continuous 16th notes. The motion is interrupted a couple times within the course of the piece, but hints of the 16th note motion still remain. After the introduction ad the initial statement of the three motives, the piece continually alternates and develops the motives in a sort of Baroque "Fortspinnung" manner. The motion drives to a grand moment where Motive 2 is stated in a grandioso style at measure 174. A sweet reminiscence of Motive 3 follows and segues into a rousing coda.
Instrumentation:
Percussion 1 (bells, xylophone, vibraphone, crotales, crash cymbals)
Percussion 2 (vibraphone, chimes)
Percussion 3 (temple blocks, brake drum, suspended cymbal, crash cymbals, tam tam, bongos)
Percussion 4 (4 toms, small bass drum, congas, hi hat, crash cymbals)
Marimba 1 (4 octave)
Marimba 2 (4 octave)
Marimba 3 (4 octave)
Marimba 4 (5 octave)

[@zeniapowers3556]

This could be re-scored for half as many players and it would sound more-or-less the same.... ok, well it could be scored for TWO FEWER MARIMBAS and sound exactly the same.

[@davidgillingham5337]

So you say. The extra instruments add the "depth" that I intended---so says me, the composer!

[@markcooperartcomofficial]

Exactly! Everything counts. You're a great composer.

[@SloansCommonGround]

I was forced to conduct this piece while missing a marimbist last week due to a student not showing up and the sound was definitely less full and beautiful! Four marimba players are definitely a must for this piece.

[@bishuu7]

Lol.