Teardrop (Rossini) (Download)

arranged for solo vibraphone and piano by Brian Slawson

Brian Slawson

Level: Med-Easy

Duration: 3:30

Personnel: 1-2 players

State Lists: Florida

Release Date: 2019

Product ID : TSPCS19-018DL

Price: $15.00

Item #: TSPCS19-018DL

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Description

Initially written for the double bass by the beloved Italian opera composer Gioachino Rossini, Brian Slawson‘s arrangement of Teardrop for solo vibraphone captures the wistful romance of Rossini’s original. Slawson chose to arrange the piece on vibraphone specifically for its “magical bell-like quality” and to give percussionists the opportunity to focus on musicality and shaping lyrical phrases. The pedaling, mallet dampening, and motor choices are left to the discretion of performer, which allows younger players the chance to show off their creativity and allow their individual voice to be expressed.

The sheet music for the piano accompaniment part is provided. In addition, “piano-only” audio files (in three different tempos) are provided in case the soloist doesn’t have access to a live accompanist.

Use of this product is governed by the license terms outlined here.

Instrumentation

• Vibraphone

• Piano

Reviews

Many percussion pieces that have piano accompaniment are concertos and too advanced for a beginning player. “Teardrop” fits nicely into that gap, giving a beginner percussionist the same classical experience that a beginning violinist would have, in a way that is accessible. The vibraphone part is scored for two mallets, repetitive and melodic, and composed of simple, single-line rhythms. Pedaling and dampening are left up to the performer, making this a good pedagogical exercise for someone new to the vibraphone, and allowing for performers to make the piece their own despite its simplicity.

The tempo is slow, and the most challenging part of the piece is syncopated triplets. “Teardrop” can be performed with a pianist, but also comes with an accompaniment recording in three tempo options so that vibraphonists can use it while they learn the piece. An arrangement for vibraphone allows a performer to work on musicality through phrasing and sustain.

“Teardrop” would be a great first recital piece for a new percussionist. The melody is sophisticated enough to make it satisfying to more than just children.

—Marilyn K. Clark Silva
Percussive Notes
Vol. 58, No. 4, August 2020