Mallet Dance by Anders Astrand

Review (Percussive Notes, March (58) 2012)

This short and sweet four-minute work is more of a technical exercise for the marimbist. In the A section, the marimba writing consists primarily of single independent strokes in the left hand, while executing inside and outside double lateral strokes in the right hand; double lateral strokes alternate, which works the “pendulum” technique. This provides underlying harmonies while the vibraphone plays seemingly improvisational lines above. (Four-mallet technique is also required in the vibraphone.)

The work is in ABA form, with the brief B section consisting of scalar passages in both parts, which quickly leads to the return of the A section. Easily accessible for advanced high school students, this work provides an enjoyable opportunity to feature a duo at your next percussion ensemble concert, or solo and ensemble festival.

—T. Adam Blackstock