‘And Now for the News’ multi percussion and tape (1983)

This piece is based on Vietnamese speech rhythms set against a constant pulse. The performer(s) improvise to a pre-recorded tape, using the transcribed rhythmic material as a basis. The tape is comprised of a steady drum pulse and various overlayed segments of male and female voices.

The written score is a transcription of the rhythms in relation to a pulse. The performer treats the score as a resource for rhythmic ideas – it is not necessary to play in unison with the tape, although there is no reason not to. Counterpoint, unison, ostinato or completely free elements may all be used. Large silences (tape solos) could also be effective.

The piece was conceived as a multi-drum solo and was originally played on a range of eight concert tom-toms from 6in to 18in. However, the instrumentation is variable and could include wood or metal sounds. Long envelope sounds such as cymbals and tam–tams should be avoided.

Full score

Performance instructions

Program note

Master tape part .mp3 and .aif formats

Demonstration performance by the composer .mp3 and .aif formats (all audio files contained in a single zipped folder)

– Steven Schick, Distinguished Professor of Music, University of California, San Diego

– Cory Hills, independent percussionist and composer