Mandalorian, The

Göransson; arr. Kirk J. Gay

10 Players

Medium Concert Percussion

Instrumentation

• Glockenspiel
• 2 vibraphones
• Chimes
• 2 marimbas — (1) low A, (1) 5-octave
• 4 timpani
• Drums — small bass drum, low tom
• Cymbals & Gongs — suspended cymbal, tam-tam, thunder sheet
• Accessories — waterphone

The Mandalorian arranged by Kirk J. Gay is based on the main theme from the live-action Star Wars television series of the same name. The original score, written by Swedish composer Ludwig Göransson, was birthed through experimentation and improvisation. Göransson discovered the opening theme of the work by playing a bass recorder processed with digital audio effects to emulate a more “futuristic” sound. Throughout the piece, Göransson embodies the spirit of the American Western with earthy textures, ostinato drum patterns, and a nod to the famous whistle from The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, while incorporating science fiction elements with various synthesizers and references to the Star Wars films.

Gay’s adaptation for percussion ensemble aims to be a close representation of the original score in its instrumentation, effects, and orchestration. The piece calls for 10 players across commonly found percussion instruments. To fully embrace the science fiction nature of the piece, Gay has incorporated a thunder sheet and waterphone for special effect moments. The Mandalorian is an entertaining and fun addition to any percussion ensemble concert.

The Mandalorian ships as a printed, professionally bound score and includes individual parts in PDF format for printing or tablet viewing.