percussion
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Notes On Practice As Repetition Without Repetition
In the 1920s, Nikolai Bernstein, a mostly self-taught neurophysiologist and pioneer in the field of motor control, studied the movements of blacksmiths at Moscow’s Central Institute of Labor. Bernstein used cyclographic photography techniques to track the motions used to cut metal with a chisel and hammer. (See photo above.) His research showed how repeating movements Continue reading
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On Being Fluid And Deliberate
A fair many years ago at one of my music lessons my teacher, Russell, suggested that I make my body movements more fluid, more deliberate. I was playing a multi-percussion piece for marimba and some tom-toms, moving from one instrument group to another, probably rather abruptly. Russell suggested making the tempo of my gestures match the Continue reading
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Timing Techniques: Listening Over People, Rhythmically Resisting, And Super Rhythm
There’s a spot in the show where I have a solo—a moment to set the time for everyone else. The conductor thinks he’s in charge, but no, he’s actually following me in my moment of laying it down, which is simultaneously my moment to test a hypotheses. The hypothesis is this: at some point in Continue reading
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Piano, Metals And Organ Music
Available on Spotify and Apple Music. (Mastered by Alain Van Achte) Continue reading
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Music for Marimbas and Vibraphones
Music for Marimbas and Vibraphones Stream the music and follow me on Spotify. Continue reading
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Reset
In my current work of performing music, perhaps the most useful “secret” for maintaining a high standard of playing is my ability to reset. In my life outside of music, there are very few occasions in need of resetting—at home, there’s pressing the small button on the kitchen thermometer, or unplugging the cable modem now Continue reading
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Interface: On The Ergonomics Of Musical Instruments
“Most of the works are not about something–they are not trying to tell something–but they are more made like interfaces for the viewer.” – Cevdet Erek Recently I came across the music of the Turkish artist and musician Cevdet Erek, who creates sound art installation works that deal with sounds, space, and rhythm. Here is some Continue reading
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The Percussionist
The next time you’re at a concert notice the melodists up front –those singing, strumming, bowing or blowing through pipes– and watch them sway with the tune as if they invented its themes as if they’re unlocking its emotions then notice the rhythmicists at the back –those drumming hammer blows or mallet strikes– and feel how they Continue reading
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