This challenging arrangement for solo marimba (four-mallets), is comprised of a four-part chorale-style exposition of the famous early American melody, followed by four variations in contrasting styles. The variations make use of performance practices of West African players of the gyil (ostinato figures in one hand against polyrhythmic melodic fragments in the other), quartel and quintal harmonies, arpeggiated textures (reminiscent of Japanese Koto performance) as well as copious use of independentrolls (single-handed). The five movements can be played as a "suite" or independently as the performance context requires. This is an ideal pie ce for sacred contexts as well as the recital hall. adv. high school/college.
