The Magical, Mystical Rain Forest

Review

TUBA Journal
F O R    E U P H O N I U M    A N D    T U B A

Volume 18, Number 3
Summer 1992

Unlike the complex rhythmic demands of Ayers' The Dancing King, this piece is easily accessable by college and advanced high school ensembles. The 4/4 time signature and quarter note=126 tempo essentailly remain constant. Since the ensemble begins without tape, one needs a competent CD operator (or a long remote cord) to activate the CD at the precise time. The score and parts are immaculate with large, easy-to-read notes, informative program notes, about the piece and how to operate the tape as well as a biography of the composer.

The accompaniment is interesting with a variety of very convincing percussive and mallet instument effects. Overall ranges for the ensemble are rather conservative ranging from the first euphonium high note of Bb above middle C to EE, the lowest note of the tuba part.

For the college and professional ensembles, this piece is rather light although it makes for a good diversion from the customary fare, and at 5.5 minutes, a perfect length for resting one's "chops." I like the blend of sounds Ayers achieves with the balance of acoustical and electronic mediums and I like the rhythmic drive of the accompaniment.

—Dr. Mark Nelson

© 1992 TUBA Journal
used by permission