Distance by Michael Barnes

 Micheal Barnes’ Distance is a moving, reflective piece centering around the separation and termination of relationships between people. The concept of the piece’s namesake, distance, can be seen literally through the player’s hands that spread apart throughout the piece until they are separated a great distance at the climax.

Scored for 5-octave marimba, seven crotales (2-octave range), and optional ocean drum accompaniment, Distance is a heartfelt but ambitious work for a mature performer that has a good command over both traditional and one-handed rolls.