The Pocket-Sized Funk Machine
for percussion ensemble
Matthew Kilby describes The Pocket-Sized Funk Machine as “a malfunctioning musical box.” Scored for advanced percussion ensemble, this work is equal parts funky, off-kilter, and absurd. Groovy bebop lines sputter into minimalist phrases, whirls around the circle of 5ths, and Jacob Collier-inspired beats.
The piece offers a high degree of individual responsibility, with each player providing a unique layer to the grooves and musical episodes. The xylophone player is invited to “lean back” their feel on solo lines; the drumset part may be embellished freely; even the glockenspiel part enjoys an unexpected solo moment over a heavy-hitting percussion beat. Kilby’s work is uniquely humorous yet listenable, and is a well-rounded addition to concert programs!
The Pocket-Sized Funk Machine ships as a printed, professionally bound score, and includes individual parts in PDF format for printing or tablet viewing.
- Glockenspiel
- Xylophone
- 2 vibraphones
- 2 marimbas — (1) low A, (1) low F
- 4 timpani
- Drumset
- Bass guitar
- Drums — bongos, timbales
- Accessories — ratchet, police whistle, flexatone, slapstick, temple blocks, mark tree, rainstick, cha cha bell, jam block, mambo bell, triangle
Reviews
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Justin Bunting –
This new percussion ensemble piece is described as the sound of a “malfunctioning musical box that sputters (often abruptly) into off-kilter funky episodes.” A recurring melodic theme and groove are the earworm, while the “sputters” are fun and interesting surprises.
The piece not only requires multiple players capable of advanced four-mallet parts, but the entire ensemble must understand various time signatures, including 12/16. The timpani player doubles the bass guitar often, which requires a lot of pedaling. In the performance notes, Matthew Kilby includes suggestions for substituting or doubling instruments, if necessary. He also mentions that the drum set part, which is notated, can be “embellished to taste.”
The score is very well-marked, clear, and user-friendly. I recommend this piece for an advanced high school or university percussion ensemble. The harmonic language and groove are accessible to both audience and players. The “off-kilter” nature gives the music just enough unpredictability to keep the audience guessing.