Popular Songs for Marimba Book/CD: each
Composer: Grossmann Michael
'Dear marimba players! The initial idea behind this book was to compose a journey through the keys with marimba pieces. There are etudes like this for many instruments and the purpose is to develop the important skill of being able to move freely in all the many different keys. This volume with 11 pieces for solo marimba is not ordered according to levels of difficulty, but according to keys. You and your teacher can decide for yoursleve in what order you wish to proceed. The inspiration for the pieces was didactic, but they are also intended to be fun to play and to offer attractive practice pieces to those of you who prefer listening to popular music. The improvisation exercises for pieces 2, 5, and 8 may give you the courage to embark on a journey of discovery. Pieces 2, 4, and 8, and possibly 11 too are very suitable for ensemble playing. Piece No. 6 can be accompanied by a small band with bass, drum set, and keyboard. It should go down well at school concerts! . . . Additionally, the book is accompanied by a CD containing recordings of all the songs as well as some play-alongs that should inspire working with the improvisation exercises. For me, personally, listening to the pieces I am presently working on is always an excellent motivation booster. The percussion accompaniments I have laid down should also encourage you to perform the pieces in ensembles. Here, the marimba can, on most songs, be divided between two players, if desired. There are play-alongs for the pieces 'Caribbean Lullaby', 'A Fairy Tale', and 'Rimpartido Alto'. Wishing you lots of fun with 'popular songs''
- Michael Grossmann.
