The Gig Log: UWS and Maslanka's "Symphony No. 9"

Half of the rehearsal set up.

As a member of the Utah Wind Symphony percussion section, I am privileged to not only play with a bunch of fabulous musicians and a great conductor, but also to play music that is accessible to a very few groups. In our finale concert of the 2011-12 season, we performed David Maslanka's "Symphony No. 9."

We were joined in rehearsals by Stephen Steele, who commissioned the work, and David Maslanka himself. It was a demanding, challenging and rewarding experience. Among the rewards was a glimpse into the mind of one of the greatest composers of our time, and the beginnings of an understanding of this masterful work of art.

Truth be told, I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy the piece after our sight-reading rehearsal. I just didn't "get it." Even after listening to the recording, studying the score and practicing my part, it took some time to gain even a basic appreciation for the music.

But things started to change pretty drastically when Maslanka joined our rehearsals. He was able to provide a lot of background information and insight into the construction of the piece. And even though our conductor, Scott Hagen, is a a master in his own right, nothing compares to the vision and direction of the composer. His direction and corrections turned the piece into something completely new - more powerful, incisive and direct - experience for the entire ensemble.

The other half.

If you'll allow a brief comparison, I like to think music is a lot like people. Sometimes you like people immediately. Others require more time and investment of ourselves. Sometimes, this type of friendship provides more depth and value than those that are "easy." So it was with "Symphony No. 9." By the time we finished the performance and left the stage, I was exhausted, but I knew I had a new "friend" for life.

To the UWS, David Maslanka, Scott Hagen, Stephen Steele, my section mates and many others, I thank you.


Can't wait for the next one!

Beyond the Kit: The Percussion Section

Last weekend was All-State Band in Utah, and I was lucky (!) to be able to sit in on some of the percussion activities, including a great sectional/coaching section with Eric Nix. Not only did I learn a lot from Eric, I was completely impressed by the students in the section. They were great!

The experience reminded me of the importance of being a team player, because that's what a band or section is - a team. There were a couple of pieces that required more players than they had, so they all juggled parts and chipped in to make sure that all of the notes got covered. The pianist even covered a bell part to make things a little smoother.

In a percussion section, just like on a sports team, every person has to be willing and able to not only play any part that is needed, but also be willing to let others shine and play to their individual strengths. It doesn't hurt if you're friendly, humble and reliable, too.

Among other things, a good section percussionist should:

• Have a base level of skill on snare drum, keyboards, timpani, bass drum, cymbals and all auxiliary instruments
• Be able to sight read fairly well
• Come to all rehearsals with parts prepared
• Come to all rehearsals with needed mallets, sticks, and "toys"
• Own - and religiously use - a pencil (or multiple pencils, whatever it takes)
• Be punctual - ready for downbeat at least five minutes before rehearsal starts (15 minutes is even better)
• Always help with load in and out, and any other "heavy lifting"
• Be flexible and practical - percussion sections have to just "make it work"

And if I could offer one more piece of advice, it would be to get a reputation as somebody that's always got a good attitude and is willing to help out and not be a "diva." Many a gig has gone to the guy or girl who's easy to work with, even though he or she may not be the best player.

Happy drumming!