Every serious
student of marimba is familiar with the pioneering 4-mallet technique of Leigh
Howard Stevens. However, there’s a whole other side to this craft, which has to
do with the translation of classical repertoire for the instrument. Some of the greatest composers of the
19th century (and beyond) have been represented with absolute
artistry in a CD entitled “Marimba When” – a collection of piano music by
Debussy, Schumann, Tchaikovsky and Khachaturian as performed by Mr. Stevens.
The opening track, "Doctor Gradus ad Parnassum” from Debussy’s
“Children’s Corner” is a personal favorite of mine. The tempo was carefully
chosen (a bit slower than normally performed on piano) to allow the notes to
speak fully (considering the natural decay of the instrument). The dynamics on
"The Snow is Dancing" (also Debussy) demonstrate extreme sensitivity
and control along with the backdrop arpeggio against the chordal melody.
Another beautiful melody comes from Schumann’s "Untitled
No.30" (from “Album for the Young”, Op.68). The tempo is much slower than
what is commonly heard on piano but (here again) it works perfectly for
marimba, drawing attention to the
slowly shifting harmony through extended rolls. The chordal accompaniment on "Remembrance"
(also “Album for the Young”, Op.68) resonates for the perfect duration before
changing chords. As is evident here, a player must listen to the natural
characteristics of the marimba to determine performance choices that may not
apply to the original instrument (i.e. piano).
Shifting gears slightly, Khachaturian’s "Ivan Can't Go Out
today" (from “The Adventures of Ivan”) is driven by a triplet flow –
impeccably executed! A final highlight includes "Ivan Goes to a
Party" with a performance that really conveys the quality and depth of the
instrument - especially the low notes that introduce the piece.
I highly recommend owning this CD if you’re a serious student of
4-mallet marimba. “Marimba When” demonstrates how a true understanding of classical
repertoire can lead to the most musical and idiomatic translation for the
instrument.
To purchase “Marimba When”, click below:
