Petrichor by Kenyon Williams

Petrichor is defined as “a pleasant smell that frequently accompanies the first rain after a long period of warm, dry weather.” In this piece, Kenyon Williams seeks to contribute something new to the metaphorical “drought” in timpani solo literature: melodic flow and countermelody.

Multiple layers of responsibility are presented to the player. Various timpani techniques are used throughout, including rolls, contrasting stroke types, pedaling, and mallet changes. On top of this, crotales and woodblocks add to the multi-percussion sound palette in unique ways, such as crotales struck on a timpani head while pedaling to different pitches underneath. Eventually, the speed ramps up, introducing a new kind of challenge. This piece is a great addition to well-rounded solo recitals by advanced players!

This solo can also be found in The Blue Book – Volume 3 along with over 40 other solos for snare drum, drum set, mallet keyboard, and timpani.