Aftershock!
for percussion ensemble
Aftershock! by Alan Keown is the musical successor to Shockwave! Scored for the same instrumentation as its predecessor — two sets of bongos, high and low congas, and four graduated toms — this medium-easy piece is scored (and staged) to emphasize call-and-response phrasing and section-to-section statements.
The piece uses a short, syncopated motif that permeates the work while serving as a rhythmic training tool for younger players. With many of the rhythms being played in unison (or subsections of the ensemble), players can build confidence while performing a fun work of “drummy” goodness for their audience!
Aftershock! ships as a fully bound score and includes individual parts in PDF format for either printing or tablet viewing.
- 2 Pairs of bongos
- 2 Congas (high & low)
- 4 Toms (graduated high to low)
Reviews
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Joseph Van Hassel –
“Aftershock!” is a sequel to Alan Keown’s “Shockwave!,” also composed for an elementary-level percussion ensemble with the same instrumentation. Because they are both energetic and fun, the two pieces would work nicely as the opening and closing of a concert.
“Aftershock!” is in 4/4 and based on a reoccur- ring syncopated sixteenth-note rhythm. In fact, the entire three-minute work is based on eighth- and sixteenth-note based rhythms. Keown provides mostly right-hand-lead sticking for these rhythms (although they could easily be adjusted for left-hand lead). Therefore, “Aftershock!” works well as a pedagogical reinforcement for dominant-hand-lead sticking.
There are a wide range of dynamics, and all eight parts are equal in difficulty. There is much additive and unison playing (often split into two groups of four players), which can allow more experienced players to help lead/coach less experienced players. There are also a few simple visuals and vocalizations, adding to the engaging nature of this piece.
The instruments called for are often found in middle and high school band rooms, but if not, I imagine substitutions can be made without disrupting the integrity of the work (the homogenous timbres and pitch-spread seem to be the most important elements). “Aftershock!” is an accessible, exciting, and engaging work that performers and audiences will find fun!
—Joseph Van Hassel
Percussive Notes
Vol. 62, No. 6, December 2024