Big Country is a catchy and inspired composition by world renowned banjo picker and jazz musician Béla Fleck from the album Left of Cool by Béla Fleck and the Flecktones. Its simple melody encapsulates the folksy sound of Americana, and Olin Johannessen's arrangement wonderfully captures this through his scoring for percussion ensemble.

Featuring 4-mallet independent techniques for marimbas and xylophone, Fleck's original banjo part transfers well to percussion ensemble. This arrangement also features a small rhythm section (drumset and bass guitar) to drive the two-step feel and includes optional parts for soprano sax (inspired by the original) as well as a couple optional basic marimba parts (in addition to main marimbas) for larger ensembles. Also, the xylophone and glockenspiel parts are written so that one player can cover both parts which may be useful for smaller groups.

This is a very accessible piece, but it does require a good level of technical proficiency from marimba and xylophone players. It can be something of a 4-mallet workout and requires a relaxed and smooth approach to the instrument. As Johannessen states in the performance notes, "This piece is about making people feel good." Big Country is sure to be a welcome addition to your next percussion ensemble concert.

This piece comes with a full, bound score and includes all individual parts available for printing on the included CD-Rom.

Big Country Reviews

Jim Lambert Review in April 2009 edition of Percussive Notes Magazine “Béla Fleck’s “Big Country” has been arranged for large keyboard percussion ensemble (plus drumset, bass, percussion, and optional soprano saxophone). True to the original 1997 Béla Fleck CD, this arrangement will challenge the two four-mallet marimbists the most; however, the remaining keyboard parts are not overly easy (glockenspiel, xylophone, two vibraphone parts, and optional bass marimba). An enclosed CD permits the purchaser to print the individual parts for “Big Country.” Once the ensemble members feel the Béla Fleck fusion groove, “Big Country” is certain to engage an audience who is familiar with this fusion-jazz-like musical style. This nearly three-minute composition is suitable for the mature college percussion ensemble.” Add your review here Your name: * Your message: * Maximum review length is 2000 characters Type the characters you see in the picture. (If you do not see any picture here, please enable images in your web browser options and refresh this page): Get a different code Add review