Symbiotique (Download)

Symbiotique by Tyler Tolles is an eccentric and colorful percussion quartet that explores the many sonic possibilities of the vibraphone and pushes performers' musical comfort and awareness. Based on the words “symbiosis” (a mutually beneficial relationship in nature) and “tique” (a habitual, repetitive motion), the piece requires a tremendous amount of skill, communication, and confidence from all four players. Each part fits into the others to create one interconnected piece of music, requiring all four players to master their part individually and work together to sound as one.

The piece begins with an coordinated swirling texture created by two players using mallets on the vibraphone while the other two performers bow the instrument creating a sustained ethereal atmosphere. The mallet players transition to play complex interwoven sextuplet "splits" while the other two players mimic this concept on their drum setups. The middle of the piece features extended techniques, such as pitch bending and harmonics, all while the vibraphone is being bowed. This section creates an eerie and chilling musical experience providing performers with a unique opportunity to explore the many sonic possibilities of the vibraphone. In the final section of the piece, Tolles incorporates complex splits and extended techniques found earlier to bring the piece home. The combination of extended techniques and intertwined parts engages performers and audiences alike in a profound visual and sonic experience.

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