Montana Music: Three Dances for Percussion - Percussion Ensemble

Inspired by the spirit and landscape of Montana, Montana Music: Three Dances for Percussion is a deeply expressive work written for the Central Michigan University Percussion Ensemble and percussionist Robert Hohner. Conceived as a companion to the composer’s Arcadia II, the piece unfolds in three slow, atmospheric movements that explore creation, transformation, and rebirth through rich percussion textures and shimmering vibraphone sonorities. Structured in clear ABA forms, the music balances emotional intensity with classical clarity, creating a powerful and evocative concert work for advanced percussion ensemble.

Instrumentation:

• Percussion 1: Vibraphone 1, 3 Gongs
• Percussion 2: Vibraphone 2, 3 Gong (Tuned), Chimes, Tam-tam, 3 Gongs (Large, Untuned)
• Percussion 3: Marimba 1, Crotales (shared with Percussion 6), Gong (Medium), Rattle (Gourd)
• Percussion 4: Marimba 2, Sus. Cymbals (Small, Large)
• Percussion 5: 2 Bongos, 6 Congas (Various), Snare Drum, Tenor Drum, Bass Drum, Cabasa (Small), 2 Shakers (Small), Crotales (On Timp. Head, shared with Percussion 6), Anvil (suspended), Maracas
• Percussion 6: Timpani, Crotales (shared with Percussion 5), Triangle, Sus. Cymbal (Small, Large), Cabasa, Log Drum, Temple Block 2 Shakers, Claves
• Percussion 7: Cabasa (Small and Large), 2 Gongs (Large and Tuned), Bass Drum, Rain Stick (bamboo), Claves. 2 Log Drum, Sus. Cymbal (Small), Tam-tam, Ratchet
• Percussion (Off-Stage): Siren, Marimba
• Piano
• Double Bass

Includes score and parts. Duration: c. 25 minutes.