Some Uptown Hip-hop by Arthur Lipner

Some Uptown Hip-Hop is written primarily for a 4.3 octave marimba but can be adapted to a 5 octave instrument. Since there is not a universal system for sticking notation due to different grips, L and R are indicated. In some places ‘4’ is used to indicate the leftmost mallet. Dynamics are, for the most part, left to the discretion of the performer.

Stick clicks are an important contribution to this piece. Play them loudly and confidently. Their rhythm and sound colour will make a huge difference and help to loosen up the mood of the piece. Some Uptown Hip-Hop will be more fun to play – and watch – and will sound better! – when the player loosens up his/her body and moves with the beat.

There is also Percussion Ensemble arrangement of Some Uptown Hip-Hop, in the same key as this solo version. After a player learns this solo version she/he can be featured with the Percussion Ensemble playing the Marimba part of that arrangement. Improvisation is not required in either arrangement.

Some Uptown HUp-Hop was originally recorded on the Arthur Lipner Jazz cd ‘In Any Language’ (1990). The performer is encouraged to check out this band recording to hear the intentions of the composer regarding the Calypso feel of the main theme.