Cascade Effect by Amanda Sycamore

Written for the intermediate marimba soloist, Cascade Effect is the perfect opportunity to showcase a soloist while still challenging the percussion trio. With optional opportunities for improvisation and the intertwining of all four percussion parts, this pieces is a constant drive from start to finish!

Program Notes
The concept of the cascade effect refers to the impact one event has on multiple related events. In this piece, the cascade effect refers to both the movement of thematic material from the solo marimba to the other mallet instruments in the trio, ‘cascading’ from one instrument to the next, as well the continuous flow of the piece, reminiscent of the flow of water cascading over rapids or falls. The soloist is given the opportunity to create their own cadenza in the middle of the work based on a chord structure outlined in the music. If the soloist is not comfortable creating, then they are encouraged to play the rolled chords with dynamic contrast and rubato movements in mind.

The percussion trio parts ask plenty of the players as they create melodic content as well as add percussive grooves to drive the piece, sometimes even being asked to do them at the same time.

– A.S.