Embers (On Shared Ground)

by Chad Heiny

Medium-Advanced Concert Percussion

10-12 Players

Instrumentation:

• Glockenspiel
• Chimes
• 2 Vibraphones
• 2 Marimbas — (1) low A, (1) 5-octave
• Drums — bongos, 2 congas, concert bass drum
• Cymbals & gongs — suspended cymbal (optional), China cymbal, sizzle cymbal, tam-tam
• Accessories — claves (2 pairs), egg shaker, finger cymbals, triangle, log drum (2 pitches) (optional)
• Implements — 3 bows, bundle sticks

Embers (On Shared Ground) by Chad Heiny is a medium-advanced percussion ensemble for 9–10 players, written for the Susquehanna University Percussion Ensemble. Inspired by the shared ground between Susquehanna University and the Susquehannock Tribe, the work centers on the image of a communal fire as both a gathering place and a symbol of connection.

The music traces the natural life cycle of a fire, beginning with small, delicate gestures that gradually become more active and layered as the flames grow before settling into a warm, sustained resonance suggestive of glowing coals. Throughout, the writing remains melodic and color-driven, emphasizing blend, texture, and long musical lines.

The physical setup reinforces the work’s concept: Performers surround the musical space and share several instruments, encouraging careful listening and awareness. For a nine-player ensemble, the optional percussion part may be dispersed among the other players, allowing the full musical effect to be maintained with one fewer performer.

This piece ships as a fully bound score. Individual parts come exclusively in PDF format.