Streamline (2011)
Streamline is an exciting work for hand drum septet that combines instruments and techniques from a variety of world percussion aesthetics. In addition, there are a few sections that provide an opportunity for the performers to improvise.
Instrumentation
Conga, Djembe, Low Woodblock, Dundun (or low drum), Wood Drum (or wooden box w/ mallet), Bongos, 2 Piccolo Woodblocks, Caxixi (basket shaker), Chinese Cymbals (pair), Gliss Gong, African Double Bell
Streamline was commissioned by Jeremy Craycraft and The College of St. Scholastica Hand Drum Ensemble. The work itself is a reflection of my interest in world music as it blends together aspects of West African, Cuban, Haitian, and Chinese music. The use of indigenous instruments and playing techniques from these countries are seen and heard throughout the piece. Similar to many other hand drum works, Streamline contains sections reserved for improvisation. The performers are free to use these sections for anyone in the group to improvise. While the music of other cultures certainly influenced the overall sound of Streamline, the bulk of the piece is constructed from a contemporary music perspective.