Rainfall

Designed to simulate a rainstorm, Rainfall employs a variety of nontraditional techniques in order to reproduce certain timbres, such as finger snaps or leg-patting. Audience participation is also encouraged to enhance the effect in this slightly minimalistic work for young percussion ensemble.

Program Notes

Commissioned as part of the C. Alan Publications IGNITE Series for the developing percussion ensemble, Rainfall features flexible parts and instrumentation with engaging music for beginner percussionists. Designed to simulate a rainstorm, the performers will be required to employ a variety of nontraditional techniques in order to reproduce certain timbres, such as finger snaps or slapping their legs. The audience is encouraged to participate in this as well to help magnify the effect (i.e., the bigger the audience, the bigger the storm).

PERFORMANCE NOTES
The "rain" simulations at the beginning and end of the piece may be sustained as long as desired; audience participation is optional at the beginning, but it strongly encouraged for the end.

Suggestions for 2-mallet Bass Drum:
- Turn the drum sideways so the heads are roughly parallel to the floor.
- Hold a matching bass drum mallet in each hand and strike the drum slightly off-center.
- Alternate hands as much as possible.

Playing the timpani on the bowl during the "rain" simulations should be done very delicately to avoid damage to the instrument (especially if you have copper bowls) – just loud enough to blend effectively with the snaps and leg-patting.
The IGNITE Series for the Developing Percussion Ensemble
This unique series was designed specifically for young percussionists as they experience the magic of playing in percussion ensemble. Each piece provides the director and students with great flexibility – from the number of players to the tempo to the instrumentation. Light a fire under your students today!

Grade Level: 2
Copyright: 2011
Number of Players: 6-8
Duration: 3:30

Listen to Recordings

Sample PDF

Instrumentation

Bells (may double or substitute Vibraphone)
Xylophone (may double or substitute Marimba)
Percussion 1 (Wind Chimes, Triangle, Tambourine)
Percussion 2 (Snare Drum, Suspended Cymbal)
Percussion 3 (Bass Drum)
Timpani (2)