Product Description
Sinfonietta composed by Dan Heslink
"Sinfonietta" is a trio
for vibraphone, marimba and percussion (xylophone, snare drum, and bass drum). Its
expression is intended to be non-representational, presenting only
an interesting technical construction in a suave formal organization. With the
title the composer designates a single movement, with length and seriousness of
expression approaching a symphonic movement. Its form approximates an expanded
version of the classical sonata-allegro, dividing materials into three large
sections.
Beginning are the two main phrases of the
principal theme, which establish patterns that are idiomatic throughout the
movement. The first measures quartal harmonies divide into rhythms alternating
the two hands, the right-hand posing a melody and the left-hand complementing
it with harmony and rhythmic repetition. The phrase at measure 7 is a long-breathed
melody for vibes accompanied by undulating chords in the marimba. A transition
comprising highly qualitative rhythms (stated first by the marimba in m. 20.)
has much identity. By measure 41, the transition has grown into a full secondary
theme, one that is developed and repeated often throughout the movement. The
exposition closes with a theme beginning in measure 51. It is announced by the
vibes as another long-breathed melody unfolding over the active rhythm of the
second theme.
After a gradual dissipation, the development section
starts at measure 92 with a new but related theme, heard first in the vibes. It
offers a different key and an expressive melody slowly unfolding over
rhythmically active harmonies. The remainder of this middle section explores
nuances of the secondary and closing themes, and ultimately leads to the
movements first climax. It eventually dissipates through a gradual reduction
of density and tempo.
The Reprise begins vigorously at m. 118 with
statements of both the principal themes phrases. Then the second theme is
transformed by the addition of bass drum strokes, which sets up a codetta. This
section comprises a long crescendo on the new theme over a rhythmic tattoo
derived from the second theme, and builds to a bold conclusion.
Pedaling on the vibes is indicated
with a solid bracket below the connected notes, and half pedaling with a dashed
bracket. It is imperative that the percussion part be heard but not dominate.
The performer is encouraged to experiment with a piccolo snare drum and 28"
bass drum. "Sinfonietta" would serve equally well in a professional, college or
advanced high school percussion recital. The composer assigns a difficulty
level of medium difficult. Duration is 8:10. The composer, Dan Heslink, can be
contacted at dan@dheslink.com.
This product was created by a member of ArrangeMe, Hal Leonard's global self-publishing community of independent composers, arrangers, and songwriters. ArrangeMe allows for the publication of unique arrangements of both popular titles and original compositions from a wide variety of voices and backgrounds.