Integrated Elements No. 2 - “Not a Haiku”

Robert McClure

Med-Advanced Multiple-percussion solo with audio

Instrumentation: Kick drum (with double pedal), 4 toms (8", 10", 12", 14"), 2 mini timbales, Log drum (2 pitches), Wooden head tom, 2 woodblocks, PA system (with monitor and house speakers for accompaniment audio)

Robert McClure’s Integrated Elements series aims to use sounds created by instruments, digital audio, and sounds made by the human voice or mouth to create an integrated sound world. Integrated Elements No. 2 - "Not a Haiku" is constructed in three large sections, breaking down into a five-part arch form. The ratio 5:7:5 devises the length of the three large sections as well as the metric scheme of 5/8, 7/8, and 5/8. Despite the 5-7-5 structure, McClure states that the piece was not inspired by the Japanese “haiku” form of poetry and is, as such, not a haiku.

The setup includes unpitched percussion instruments such as toms, mini timbales, kick drum, and wooden instruments, while the accompanying audio track contains a unique sound design via metallic percussion effects, reverse effects, static, and gongs. The piece also calls for a constructed wooden-headed tom which creates a singularly unique sound. Simple instructions are included on how to turn a regular tom into a wooden-headed drum.

This piece comes with a full, bound score and includes the full-quality audio file for the prerecorded sound, as well as an audio recording of a live performance to use as reference.