Creating visceral, resonant soundscapes through percussion is an art that requires both innate talent and careful study. In the book How to Write for Percussion: A Comprehensive Guide to Percussion Composition, Samuel Z. Solomon takes readers on an educational journey into the realm of percussion composition.
The book works magic for anyone, whether an experienced composer, a student, or an enthusiast, seeking to understand the complexities of composing for the diverse world of percussive instruments. With a holistic approach, the book covers areas such as understanding the percussion family’s anatomy, notating tongue-twisting rhythms and daunting dynamics, executing challenging techniques, and more.
One aspect that sets Solomon’s book apart is its exclusive focus on creating for percussion. It amounts to a treasure trove of knowledge for the aspiring percussion composer. A remarkable highlight of this guidebook is its discussion considering the human element- the percussionist’s physical limitations and capabilities, which is crucial for writing playable and performative pieces effectively.
Supplemented with immersive appendices that include interviews with world-class percussionists and an extensive collection of internationally acclaimed contemporary solo and ensemble literature for percussion, this book ensures every reader gets a comprehensive lesson in percussion composition.
The artistic world of percussion is broad and deep, and Solomon’s guidebook provides the ideal starting point for any creative journey in this domain. With a blend of theory and practical knowledge, the author encourages his readers to tap into their inner maestros and start composing genre-defining pieces of music. How to Write for Percussion is an invaluable resource that paves the way for understanding, appreciating, and making waves with the sheer power of percussive music.
