For Michael Baker (Composition for high trumpet and bass drum) (1996) by Marc Sabat

live peformance by ARRAYMUSIC: Michael J. Baker and John Thompson

For Michael Baker
(Composition for High Trumpet and Bass Drum, 1996)

ARRAYMUSIC 25th anniversary miniature

Composition for trumpet and bass drum was composed in Toronto in November 1996 after a suggestion by Stephen Parkinson. It is dedicated to the memory of Michael J. Baker, composer, conductor, and long-time artistic director of the ARRAYMUSIC ensemble. Michael performed the trumpet part in the premiere performance.

Tempo remains constant and very slow throughout. Both instruments play on the threshold of inaudibility. Trumpet pitch is as high as possible (at least C). Use whisper mute and/or any other technique to achieve desired dynamic. Bass drum plays with soft timpani mallets. Re-articulated (accented) notes should be slightly separated and played with a delicate stress.