DrumSong

DRUMSONG (1989) was written for the Sydney band Jump Back Jack and was first performed at Kinsela’s nightclub as part of the music/dance celebration Gravity. The four drum parts from high to low fit together to become a mesmeric, joyful, communal groove. It can be played with just four players or parts can be doubled ad infinitum for larger ensembles.

The score contains patterns and fills for the group to arrange. A sample arrangement is included.
Changes are called by a leader, who can either play one of the drum parts or add an optional double bell pattern.
The piece is primarily about feel and groove and needs lots of repetition in rehearsal to get to the point where the players are relaxed.