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One percussion with one other
instrument
Works are in alphabetical order, durations in parenthesis
ATMOSPHERES (2005) for trumpet/flügelhorn
& one percussion is in 3 movements, The
Wakening; One Sunday, Long Ago; and On-the-Edge, and was commissioned by the Double Take Duo. The first begins with a turbulent section featuring dramatic contrasts of dynamics and mood. This gives way to passages with a hint of playfulness and culminates in a dance-like section with a distinctly Latin flare. In One Sunday, Long Ago melodies played on the Flügelhorn soar over a delicate ostinato on the maracas. The movement ends with interplay between the marimba and the Flügelhorn, creating a beautiful, and almost meditative, atmosphere. The final movement is energetic and influenced by jazz. Percussion setup: marimba (to low A),
suspended cymbals, bongos, temple blocks, tambourine, maracas, wood
block, tam-tam, cow bell, and triangle. The marimba part calls predominately for 2-mallet technique.When 4 mallets are employed (in the third movement) sparingly, they are used in repeated chordal patterns. (10’30”) Grade V-VI.
Recorded
on the CD Double Take by
Sheryl Lynch, trumpet, and Don Parker, percussion (available from the composer). It has also been recorded on the CD Spanish Memoirs by Diego Arias and Yu-Jung Chung (IBS Classical, Spain); and on the CD Incantation by the Samodai-Szives Duo (Budapest, Hungary.)
Sound samples: Movement 1.mp3; Movement 2: excerpt A.mp3; excerpt B.mp3;
Movement 3: excerpt A.mp3; excerpt B.mp3.
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
BEHIND THE
INVISIBLE MASK (2006) for bassoon and one
percussion mixes soaring lyricism and exciting contrasts with intriguing rhythms. The title
refers to the complex of emotions a person may experience while reconciling
conflicts between his/her internal world and public role (invisible mask).The
percussion set-up includes: marimba, temple blocks, bongos, tam-tam, bass
drum, maracas, tambourine, suspended cymbals and agogo bells. This is
a memorable and captivating feature number.
(11’45”) Grade V. Percussion set-up.pdf; Score sample.pdf
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
BOOM TIME for trombone
and one percussion, words and music by Howard
Buss, is an evocative, entertaining work in which both performers
recite the text during performance. The 4 movements: Boomers!,
Thoughts of Grey, Trombone Magic, and Wild Nights, address
humankind’s relationship to technology in the modern world. The
instrumentation includes tomtoms, cymbals, wood block, wind chimes, tam-tam,
bell tree, triangle, bass drum, tambourine, hi-hat, whip, vibraslap, bells
and vibes. Commissioned by and premiered at the 1998 International Trombone Festival.
(12
’) Grade V-VI. - Score samples: “Boomers!”.pdf. “Thoughts of Grey!”.pdf;
“Trombone Magic” .pdf; “Wild Nights” .pdf; Percussion Set-up.pdf; Performance Notes .pdf
Sound Samples: Movement 1A.mp3; Movement 1B.mp3; Movement 2.mp3;
Movement 3.mp3; Movement 4.mp3
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
CRYSTAL MINIATURES for clarinet and drumset was written for clarinetist, Dr. Allison Storochuk. It received its world premier on July 9, 2023 at ClarinetFest in Denver Colorado. Through the ages people have attributed metaphysical properties to crystals. This set of five short character pieces musically addresses aspects of the nature of the respective crystals.
The movements are titled: Mischievous Pyrite “Fool’s Gold, Deep Azurite, Faceted Amethyst, Smoky Quartz, and Snowflake Tempest. It may come as a surprise to the listener that the often-lyrical melodies of Crystal Miniatures are dodecaphonic. Not all permutations of the row are used, and some are used more than once. It was the composer’s intent to musically reflect the similarities and the differences of geometric constructions of the crystals, while at the same time showcasing their beauty and unique auras. (11') Grade VI. Score sample: Excerpts.pdf
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
DE LA MADERA (2006) for oboe and marimba. The Spanish title means “From the Wood” and
refers not only to the material producing the tones, but also the alluring
enchantment of the forest. This duo mixes soaring lyricism and exciting contrasts with zesty
Latin rhythms. The result is sure to please both the audience and performers!
(10’15”) Grade V-VI. Score samples: Score
sample 1.pdf; Score sample 2
pdf
Sound samples: Excerpt_1.mp3; Excerpt_2.mp3; Excerpt_3.mp3
Video on YouTube
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
DIVERTISSEMENTS for Bb clarinet and percussion was composed in 2016 for clarinetist Kathleen Mulcahy. This work is designed so that either one or two percussionists can perform it. The 3 movements take listeners through a wide range of emotions and sonic atmospheres. Lyrical sections that are playfully juxtaposed with forceful passages characterize the first movement, Temporal Intrigues.The second movement, Mystic Eyes, has a dreamy, meditative quality. Fusional Escapades is energetic and, with the exception of the clarinet cadenza, the performers are equal partners. The sometimes-playful character of the music is reminiscent to that which occurs in the first movement. (12’40”) Grade V.- YouTube Video
Percussion Notes.pdf; Score Samples:
Movement 1.pdf, Movement 2.pdf, Movement 3.pdf
Clarinet Part Samples: Movement 1.pdf, Movement 2.pdf, Movement 3.pdf
Sound Samples: Movement 1: Excerpt 1.mp3, Excerpt 2.mp3 - Movement 2: Excerpt 3.mp3, Excerpt 4.mp3
Movement 3: Excerpt 5.mp3, Excerpt 6.mp3
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
DREAMS FROM THE SHADOWS for horn and vibraphone* explores a wide range of emotional states. From its mystical, contemplative opening, to majestic proclamations, to jubilant sections with a dance-like character, the music suggests a dream-like collage of sonic atmospheres. Soaring melodies and intriguing rhythms coupled with the beautiful sonority of the horn and vibraphone ensemble, make this an accessible, audience-friendly composition. *An electronic keyboard (emulating the sound of a vibraphone) may be used as a substitute for the vibes. Dreams from the Shadows is dedicated to hornist Gene Berger and percussionist Braham Dembar. (10’30”) Grade V.
Sound samples: Excerpt 1 (opening).mp3; Excerpt 2.mp3); Excerpt 3.mp3; Excerpt 4 (ending).mp3
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
IMPROMPTU (1994) for
clarinet (or soprano sax) and marimba is characterized by driving rhythms and ornate melodic lines.
The opening motives in both parts undergo almost continuous development
throughout the work, often giving the music a spontaneous, improvisatory
feel. At times the music has a playful, almost frolicking quality. At
other times mysterious and introspective passages contrast with aggressive,
intense sections to create an atmosphere of moodiness. The lyrical melodies
and interesting timbral contrasts between the instruments, combine with
the tonal scheme of the music to make a sophisticated, yet audience-friendly,
concert work. Two-mallet technique is prominent in the marimba part during
the more intricate solo passages and there is some use of 3 and 4
mallets in those sections where chordal writing occurs. It is frequently
performed on recitals by college students and faculty. “A very accessible and enjoyable work.” - Percussive Notes.) Grade V.
Sound Samples (played on soprano sax): Excerpt 1.mp3; Excerpt
2.mp3
Score sample: Excerpts.pdf - Video on YouTube
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
INCANTATION (1994)
for Bb trumpet & one percussion evokes the mystery and
enchantment of the sorcerer's ritual. Tightly structured sections contrast
with free-form passages in a manner analogous to the interaction of order
and mysticism in an incantation. Printed in the preface to the score is the poem "Incantation" (see below) by the composer which may be narrated before the performance and/or used as written program notes. The instrumentation
includes vibes, suspended cymbals, tam-tam, bell tree, wind chimes,
cowbell, hi-hat & tambourine. “The
audience was mesmerized as the two wizards cast their musical
spell.”- The Chicago Tribune. (8’) Grade V.
Recorded
on the CD Double Take by
Sheryl Lynch, trumpet, and Don Parker, percussion (available from the composer). It has also been recorded on the Equilibrium CD EQ58 "Old News" by Stephen Dunn, trumpet and John Pennington, percussion; on the CD Spanish Memoirs by Diego Arias and Yu-Jung Chung (IBS Classical, Spain); and on the CD Incantation by the Samodai-Szives Duo (Budapest, Hungary.)
Sound Samples: Sample#1.mp3; Sample#2.mp3
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
KALEIDOSCOPE (1988, renotated 2021) for flute
and one percussion. This colorful “theme” and variations was written
for the McCormick Duo. The theme is actually a distinctive rhythmic pattern
which is varied in a manner similar to the transformation of images as
seen through a kaleidoscope. Both performers have an equally important role in presenting themusical material - this is a true chamber work.The instrumentation
includes marimba, bells, suspended cymbals, temple blocks, bell tree,
and tambourine.
(8’20) Grade V-VI.
Sound Samples: Excerpt
1.mp3; Excerpt 2.mp3; Excerpt 3.mp3
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
NIGHT TIDE (1995)
for trombone and marimba features evocative interplay
between aggressive and serene sections, this enchanting duo is an impression
of the New England coastline at night. “The
evening’s highlight, Night Tide was a stunning aural portrait of
the sea’s ebb and flow.” - The Maine Sunday Telegram. (8’30”) Grade IV. Recorded on the CD Spanish Memoirs by Manuel Quesada Benitez and Yu-Jung Chung (available from IBS Classical).
Sound Sample#1.mp3; Sound Sample#2.mp3 - YouTube video
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
NIGHT TIDE (1995, 2012) for horn and marimba was inspired by the New England coastline at night and features an evocative interplay between turbulent and serene sections. ‘The Evening’s highlight, Night Tide was a stunning portrait of the sea’s ebb and flow.” - The Maine Sunday Telegram
(8’30”) Grade V. Score Sample.pdf
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
SCENES FROM THE HOLY LAND (2002) for flute and one percussion was commissioned for the McCormick Duo and the
30th Anniversary of the National Flute Association and was inspired by the composer’s trips to the
Middle East. It is in five movements:
I. Masada Sound sample, movement 1.mp3
II. Storm on Mount Sinai Sound sample, movement 2.mp3
III. The Flock by the Sea of Galilee Sound sample, movement 3.mp3
IV. Jordan Valley Enchantment Sound sample, movement 4.mp3
V. The Road to Jerusalem Sound sample, movement 5.mp3
Video on YouTube
Percussion instruments: Marimba, suspended cymbal, tambourine, bongos,
wood block, wind chimes, and agogo bells. (15'30") Grade V.
“The opening section, ‘Masada’ presents
angular solos against percussion accents, with ascending legato passages
for the flute. The music turns more florid and Middle-Eastern in style
before a peaceful coda. ‘Storm on Mount Sinai’ offers sharply
rhythmic music accented with tambourine and a more febrile bazaar-like
flute writing. ‘The Flock by the Sea of Galilee’ contains an
oddly memorable five-note percussion motif under a lovely bucolic flute
theme. ‘The Road to Jerusalem’ makes a haunting finale with
elaborate passages against pulsating percussion. Scenes from the
Holy Land is an effective and colorful work with deftly varied
music and tackled by the musicians with skill and understated virtuosity
Buss’ intimate style requires. It makes its effects with point and
economy and would be a boon to flute and percussion duos searching for
program material.” - The Gramophone, April 2005. Recorded
on the Capstone Records CD Howard J. Buss: Modern Times, available from the composer.
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
SKY BLOSSOMS (1998) for flute
and one percussion is a dramatic “tour de force” during which both
performers recite the text while performing. Mystical
and lyrical sections contrast with intense and explosive passages. The instrumentation includes vibes, bells, roto toms, bass drum, tambourine,
cowbell, cymbals, wind chimes, bell tree, tam-tam, temple blocks, maracas
and a lion roar. Commissioned for and premiered by Connie and Brandie Lane.
(7’30”) Grade V-VI. score
sample.pdf ; performance
notes.pdf
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
SOUNDSCAPES for saxophone (Eb alto doubling on Bb tenor) and drum set was written for Dr. Barry McGinnis. It is in 4 movements: I. Urban Bustle, IIa. Blueish Serenity, IIb. In Transit, and III. Spiritosity. Movements I. and III. are scored for alto sax, and movements IIa. and IIb. are for tenor sax. The percussionist uses a standard drum set and wind chimes.
(14’30”) Grade V.
Sound samples: Movement I.mp3; Movement IIa.mp3; Movement IIb.mp3; Movement III.mp3
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
STELLAR VISIONS (2005) for flute and marimba juxtaposes mystical, lyrical, and energetic
sections in a manner analogous to the ebb and flow of emotions experienced
by the composer during meditation on the awesome grandeur of a starry
night.
Sound Sample#1.mp3; Sound Sample#2.mp3
(6’40”) Grade V.
Recorded on the CD McDuo Works for Flute and Percussion by the McCormick Duo.
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
SYLVAN MAGIC (2016) for clarinet and vibraphone is dedicated to clarinetist Dr. Barry McGinnis. The 3 movements, Seasonal Transformations, Musing, and Bustle, were inspired by the change of the seasons in the beautiful Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania. (11’47”) Grade V.
Score Samples: Movement 1.pdf, Movement 2.pdf, Movement 3.pdf
Clarinet Part Samples: Movement 1.pdf, Movement 2.pdf, Movement 3.pdf
Sound Excerpts: Movement 1.mp3, Movement 2.mp3, Movement 3: Excerpt 1.mp3, Excerpt 2.mp3
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
VENTURES (2014) for solo euphonium and percussion (1 or 2 players) is dedicated to Patrick Nyren. Cast in 3 movements, Boldly, Introspective, and Go!, this work showcases the incredible expressive range and technical capabilities of the instruments. The percussion setup is designed so that it can be performed by 1 or 2 players. Ventures was premiered in 2014 by Patrick Nyren, euphonium, and percussionists Daniel Lyons and Kenny Goss at New Mexico State University. (14'45") Grade VI.
Sound samples: Movement 1: excerpt 1.mp3; excerpt 2.mp3; Movement 2: excerpt 1.mp3; excerpt 2.mp3;
Movement 3:_excerpt 1.mp3; excerpt 2.mp3
View on YouTube Ventures: I. Boldly, Ventures: II. Introspective, and Ventures: III Go!
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
WAVE TRAIN (1990) for flute
and marimba. The interaction of the lyrical melodies in this beautiful
and frequently performed work is reminiscent of the patterns created by
intermingling waves on the surface of water. Recorded on the CD "Premiers Plus One" by the McCormick Duo, available from HoneyRock. Sound
Samples #1.mp3; #2.mp3
(6’15”) Grade IV-V. View on YouTube
Music available from Cimarron Music Press
Percussion Music Index:
Click on an instrumentation link, works are listed in alphabetical order within each category.
Solo percussion - unaccompanied
One percussion with one other instrument
Two percussion with one other instrument
Three or more percussion with piano
Percussion ensembles
Percussion in chamber music
Howard J. Buss, Composer
Percussion Music, graded catalog of sheet music. Product description: Percussion: Solos, Duos, Ensembles, Chamber Music and Recordings