Luna, Luna by Nathan Daughtrey

Luna, Luna by Nathan Daughtrey

Introduction

Luna, Luna is a captivating percussion ensemble composition by Nathan Daughtrey, commissioned by the Aledo High School Percussion Ensemble for their performance at the 2024 Percussive Arts Society International Convention. Inspired by Federico García Lorca’s poem “Romance de la luna, luna,” the piece delves into themes of youthful innocence, mystical allure, and poignant sorrow, weaving a rich tapestry of sound that mirrors the poem’s evocative imagery.

Materials and Build Quality

Published by C. Alan Publications, the score and parts for Luna, Luna are meticulously engraved, ensuring clarity and ease of reading for performers. The publication maintains high production standards, suitable for both rehearsal and performance settings.

Performance and Use Case

Designed for a medium-advanced percussion ensemble of 13 to 15 players, Luna, Luna offers a dynamic range of textures and timbres. Its intricate interplay between instruments provides an excellent opportunity for ensembles to explore expressive phrasing and ensemble cohesion. Ideal for concert performances, festivals, and academic settings, the piece challenges performers to convey its emotional depth and nuanced character.

Instrumentation

• Player 1: Glockenspiel, Crotales (2 octaves)
• Player 2: Xylophone, Glockenspiel
• Player 3: Vibraphone 1
• Player 4: Vibraphone 2
• Player 5: Vibraphone 3 (optional)
• Player 6: Marimba 1 (4.0-octave)
• Player 7: Marimba 2 (4.5-octave)
• Player 8: Marimba 3 (5.0-octave)
• Player 9: Marimba 4 (5.0-octave)
• Player 10: Marimba 5 (5.0-octave, optional)
• Player 11: Timpani (4 drums), Sizzle Cymbal, Suspended Cymbal
• Player 12: Snare Drum, Bongos, Suspended Cymbal, Splash Cymbal
• Player 13: China Cymbal, 4 Concert Toms, 2 Brake Drums, Mark Tree
• Player 14: Concert Bass Drum, Tam-Tam
• Player 15: Machine Castanets, 2 Triangles, Ribbon Crasher, Bell Tree

Key Features

• Composer: Nathan Daughtrey
• Instrumentation: Percussion Ensemble (13–15 players)
• Difficulty Level: Medium-Advanced
• Publisher: C. Alan Publications
• Product Code: 34200
• Duration: Approximately 6 minutes and 10 seconds
• Suitable for: Concert performances, festivals, academic settings

More Information

• Explore more solo and ensemble music at Southern Percussion
• Visit Nathan Daughtrey’s Official Site

Conclusion

Luna, Luna stands as a testament to Nathan Daughtrey’s ability to translate poetic imagery into a compelling musical narrative. Its blend of lyrical passages and rhythmic complexity offers performers a rich, expressive experience, making it a valuable addition to the contemporary percussion ensemble repertoire.