Heat Stroke, for solo drum set + tape by Ivan Trevino
About the Piece:
From the Composer: Heat Stroke was composed for Aaron Staebell’s call for drum set solos. Aaron felt a need for drum set solos that could be programmed on a “classical” recital and received over 40 pieces for his call for scores. Heat Stroke is my contribution to the project. It is a groove oriented solo loosely inspired by composer John Psathas.
To order, visit https://ivandrums.com/solos/heat-stroke-drum-set-solo-tape/
From the Performer: Like many reps for classical percussion, I really enjoyed learning this piece as much as I did performing and recording it. When you break down all of the stickings you’ll find some common rudiments, like the paradiddle, just applied throughout the kit and in different variations. I really like how the toms, by themselves, really do create a melody that continually transforms throughout the piece. Props to Ivan for writing such a fun and challenging drum solo in a more classical context, yet still grooves and has power.
Main Tom Melody 0:35
The main melodic pattern is introduced between the floor tom and rack tom. Trevino doesn’t write out any of the stickings, so it’s up to you to figure this out! Go slowly and a few bars at a time. Pay close attention to accented notes and dynamics.
Don’t Miss the Hits! 2:12
Probably my favorite section of the piece! Practice these in chunks and not all at once, then you can string them together. Pay close attention to which notes are accented and which are not, and use that metronome!
Solo Buildup in Three! 2:42
This is the only part of the composition that utilizes more standard drum set groove notation. But, don’t be deceived. Slow this down and really lock in all of the limbs, as this can be quite tricky. Add some dynamics near the end for an exaggerated build-up into the freeform improv solo.
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