Music

Duration: ca. 7'
Instrumentation

RedLine (2005)

Percussion Quartet
Commissioned by the SpinDrift Percussion Group

Originally written for solo piano in 1999, RedLine now exists in three arrangements, solo piano, wind ensemble, and percussion quartet. This latest version (the quartet), was commissioned by the SpinDrift Percussion Group. The rhythmic character and complexity of the piece makes it a perfect fit for a percussion ensemble, and I'm thrilled they've decided to bring this version to life!

The title is a play on the idea of "red-lining" an engine (i.e. pushing something to its limits) and the 1/9 subway ("red") line in New York City, which I take to work each day. It's a fast, densely crowded train. The piece reflects the combination of these two ideas, and pushes ensemble (and audience?) to the edge of endurance.

More discussion of the various incarnations of this piece can be found on the BCM Discussion Forum.

There's a more recent, similarly titled work, Redline Tango, by fellow Juilliard alum, John Mackey. There's no musical relationship between the pieces.

 

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