Overseas
General Info
Year of Published: 2022
Commissioner: Per lē sùrîré Percussion Studio by Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music, Thailand
Duration: 00:09:30
Cost: €45.00
Instrumentation
Player 1: Glockenspiel & Crotales
Player 2: Xylophone
Player 3: Vibraphone 1
Player 4: Vibraphone 2
Player 5: 2 Suspended Cymbal & 4 Concert Tom Toms & Snare Drum & Bass Drum
Player 6: 5 Chinese Gongs & 2 Suspended Cymbal & Gong (Low / Medium / High) & Bass Drum
Player 7: Temple Blocks & Rain Stick & Finger Cymbals & Bell Tree & Whip & Wind Chimes (Metal)
Player 8: Chimes & 2 Suspended Cymbal & Tam Tam
Player 9: 4 Wood Blocks & Suspended Cymbal & Wind Chimes (Bamboo)
Player 10: Timpani
Player 11: Marimba 1
Player 12: Marimba 2
Player 13: Marimba 3
Player 14: Marimba 4
Player 15: Marimba 5
Player 16: Marimba 6
Player 17: Marimba 7
Player 18: Marimba 8
Description
“Overseas” is a captivating percussion ensemble piece that seamlessly blends the rich tapestry of Thai musical traditions with the nuanced elegance of Western classical influences. Composed for a formidable ensemble of 18 percussionists, the piece explores the sonic possibilities of a diverse array of instruments, creating a journey that transcends geographical boundaries.
Inspired by the study of Thai folk and academic music and attendance at various Thai music performances, the composer skillfully integrates authentic Thai elements into the composition. The result is a distinctive fusion that pays homage to cultural traditions while highlighting the universal language of music.
The ensemble is divided into distinct sections, each featuring a meticulously curated set of instruments played by expert percussionists. From the delicate shimmer of glockenspiel and crotales to the rhythmic warmth of xylophone and vibraphones, the melodic and harmonic layers are thoughtfully crafted to evoke the spirit of both Thai and Western musical aesthetics.
Players 5 and 6 introduce the power and drama of percussion set 1, featuring suspended cymbals, toms, snare drum, and bass drum. The interplay of Chinese gongs or Thai gongs adds a distinctive flavor, highlighting the cultural fusion at the core of “Overseas.”
Percussion set 2, handled by Player 6 and 7, introduces suspended cymbals, gongs of varying pitches, and a resonant bass drum, further expanding the sonic palette. Player 8 takes on the majestic tubular bells, while Player 9 explores the earthy tones of wood blocks.
Percussion sets 3 and 4, managed by Player 7 and 9, contribute an array of atmospheric sounds with rain stick, finger cymbal, bell tree, whip, wind chimes, and tam-tam. The bamboo wind chimes evoke a sense of natural mystique, enhancing the cross-cultural resonance.
The marimba ensemble, skillfully distributed across players 11 to 18, carries the melodic weight, blending seamlessly with traditional Thai percussion instruments like the klong khaek. Each marimba player contributes to the intricate layers, creating a harmonious marriage between Western and Thai tonalities.
In a moment of artistic brilliance, the ensemble utilizes voices to sing a captivating melody line, adding a human element to the auditory tapestry of “Overseas.”
“Overseas” is a testament to the composer’s dedication to cultural exploration and musical innovation, offering audiences a transcendent experience that resonates beyond borders. Through this ensemble piece, the listener is invited to embark on a sonic voyage, embracing the harmonious diversity of musical expressions.
Works for Percussion by this Composer
Marimba Solo
Concertino "Luminosity"
Etude No. 1
Etude No. 2
God Particles
Purity I
The Mirror
Concerto Works
Double Percussion Concerto No. 1
Double Marimba Concerto No. 2
Percussion Ensemble
Flow (Goliński) - Marimba Duo
God Particles II - Marimba Duo; Electronics
Hikikomori - Multiple Percussion Duo; Electronics
Layered Elements - Multiple Percussion Duo
Overseas - Percussion 18
Purity II - Marimba Duo
The Absurd World II - Marimba Duo
The Mirror II - Marimba Duo
The Principal Delusion - Mallet Ensemble
Marimba Quartet No. 2 - Marimba Quartet
With Other Instrument
Fanstasia - Marimba; Organ
Shades - Marimba; Saxophone
The Concrete Jungle - Marimba; Violin
The Three Little Birds - Marimba; Flute