Stretch is an advanced-level solo for 5-octave marimba. Composer Brian Blume describes the piece as having a constant pattern (or slight variation of this pattern) meant to connote the typical “daily grind” we go through and the stretching we must experience to grow as individuals. This piece travels through a variety of moods: Sometimes driven and energetic, demanding dexterity, while other times pensive and reflective, requiring an almost dreamlike sensitivity.
Comfortably written for an experienced marimbist, audiences will thoroughly enjoy this journey as well. Stretch is sure to become a solid, meaningful addition to your marimba repertoire.
This piece comes as a professionally bound folio. It is not currently being offered as downloadable merchandise.
Performed by Brian Blume
Stretch Reviews
Jason Baker
Reviewed in Percussive Notes July 2010
““Stretch” is a dynamic new work for 5.0-octave marimba. Programmatic in nature, the contrasting sections are intended to represent aspects of daily life. This is described in the composer’s program notes which state, “Much of the piece is characterized by a constant pattern, or slight variation of this pattern, meant to connote the typical ‘daily grind’ that many of us experience. Throughout the piece are some short moments of stretching outward on the keyboard, after which things return as before, or the music moves towards a moment of victory, a positive result of being stretched.”
Idiomatically written, Brian Blume provides many sticking indications throughout. The performer should be comfortable with multiple aspects of four-mallet technique, including independent (one-handed) rolls and permutated sextuplet rhythms. Tonal and often rhythmically driving throughout, this solo shares stylistic similarities with the music of Mark Ford. This piece is well suited for an advanced undergraduate recital, as it will be engaging both for the performer and a diverse audience.”
