Scherzo for Solo Marimba (5.0) by Chris Amick

Duration: 4’36”

Scherzo is a virtuosic piece written to sit well in the hands of the performer. While it features a vigorous tempo, the melodic and harmonic materials are presented methodically. Scherzo presents melodies through delay-like effects, off-kilter rhythms, and transitioning ideas through an engine-revving motif. 

Drawing inspiration from composers like Michael Burritt, Joseph Schwantner, and Elliot Cole, this piece is sure to excite listeners.

Scherzo is dedicated to Michael Burritt who taught me how exciting making music can be.

"I began composing Scherzo towards the end of my masters degree at the Eastman School of Music, in 2021. At the time, I was preparing Joseph Schwantner’s marimba solo Velocities for my recital, but also exploring music by Elliot Cole (Bloom Suite) and Andrew Norman (For Ashley). Initial ideas for the Scherzo were created while I improvised musical ideas around the technical demands of Velocities that were gradually developed into a full piece.

As you begin learning, it is my hope that all the notes sit well in the hands, and that you have fun practicing and performing. Happy learning!"   - Chris Amick