Pulsation
Susie IbarraPiece Duration: 07:25
About this Piece
Mixed Ensemble / Quintet: Ibarra wrote "Pulsation" for String Quartet and Drum Set, turning the normal quartet into a quintet!
Motif: Most notably at 2:09, the pizzicato figure introduced by the first violin is echoed in the cello. The motivic material from the opening two sections also return at the 6:00 mark.
Rhythmic Duration: There are numerous unique divisions of the big beat (quarter note) in this piece, usually with one instrument serving as a “time-keeper” underneath. Conducting along with this piece is a fun challenge!
Triplet: Many eighth note triplet figures are used in this piece, often unconventionally, with many rests. Quarter note triplets are also seen (marked as “6,” with two quarter note triplets fitting in the bar: 3+3=6) starting at 3:20.
Notable Passages
Description:
Rehearsal B and Rehearsal C could not be more different! At 1:16, listen for a satisfying moment of contrast. What happens to the music?
Keywords: Contrast
Description:
The violin introduces a motif with a rhythmic, descending melodic idea. They play the motif using pizzicato, which means they pluck the string with their finger, instead of using the bow!
This motif sticks around for a while, developing in small ways. Try to follow where the motif travels between the instruments in this middle section!
Keywords: Motif , Pizzicato
Description:
Listen to the glissando in the violins. Many times they are sliding together, both moving from high to low!
Keywords: Glissando
Description:
Listen to the glissandos in the violins, again here!
Keywords: Glissando