Dot Dash

An exploration of short and long sounds in a rhythmically captivating orchestration, Dot Dash is creatively-conceived work that allows for flexible instrumentation and ensemble size options. Pairing pitched and non-pitched instruments, this work turns a simple rhythmic motive into a groovy ensemble setting as sparse melodic components take a supportive role behind the textural and rhythmic features.

Program Notes

Rhythmically drawn from morse code for the words "dot" and "dash," this medium-easy percussion ensemble for flexible instrumentation can be performed with only pitched percussion (keyboards and timpani), only non-pitched percussion (plus timpani), a mixed combination of five or more players, or all nine parts, potentially doubled for an even larger ensemble. Initially stated in the bells and/or snare drum, the "dot dash" rhythmic iteration is then creatively orchestrated and strategically shifted throughout each pair of new voices that enter, turning a simple rhythmic motive into a groovy ensemble realization. Doubling the speed of the rhythm and creating call and response effects between ensemble members further exploits this motive before a sparse orchestration of the original rhythmic value passed between the ensemble that then layers into a final unison statement.

Grade Level: Intermediate
Copyright: 2022
Number of Players: 5-9
Duration: 2:35
Publisher: C. Alan Publications
Category: Percussion

Listen to Recordings

Sample PDFs

• Dot_Dash.pdf

Instrumentation

Bells
Xylophone
Vibraphone
Marimba (3-octave)
Timpani (2 drums)
Cymbals (Hi-Hat, Ride)
Bongos
Snare Drum
4 Concert Toms

*May be performed with only pitched percussion (keyboards and timpani), only non-pitched percussion (plus timpani), a mixed combination of five or more players, or all nine parts, potentially doubled for an even larger ensemble.