Steve Reich & homogenous groupings As a demonstration of instrument families, it’s hard to better the writing of Steve Reich as an exemplar. Here are a few examples of Steve Reich’s composing, which until about 1973 was almost entirely based around … Continue reading
Percussion instruments by grouping A great many successful percussion pieces and orchestrations work because the composer has thought about the instruments that can work well together. Treating the percussion department as a toy box to be dipped into with all … Continue reading
Timpani – what they are, what they do Timpani – or kettledrums (the same thing, just a more old-fashioned name) – have been largely ever-present in the orchestra from the early 18th century onwards. Originally being found in pairs and … Continue reading