Percussive Notes
October, 2000

By GEORGE FROCK

"Concerto for Percussion" is written in two movements. The first movement, "Groove," features the soloist providing a rhythmic foundation for the orchestra, which plays a theme that reflects Indian or Middle Eastern influences. Much of the percussion texture is built over the djembe, which is the bass instrument of a nine-drum setup. The second movement, "[Steady] Rock," is a strong-driving rhythmic setting with the percussion section trading motives with the soloist. The style suits the title, and the entire movement is full of energy and power.

The solo instrumentation is nine drums (djembe, congas, timbales, bongos, and four cymbals plus hi-hat). This new work for percussion and orchestra should receive many performances since the concerto demands are of moderate difficulty, and the musical themes and styles should be enjoyed by conductors and audiences alike for a regular concert season or a pops-concert format.