Celebrating five decades of captivating performances, the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble presents "New Jersey Percussion Ensemble at 50, Vol. 1," a remarkable collection of eight concertos composed by Peter Jarvis and Payton MacDonald. Released on July 6, 2018, under Composers Concordance Records, this avant-garde album spans 53 minutes and showcases the ensemble's virtuosic prowess and innovative spirit.
The album features a diverse range of compositions, each highlighting a different solo instrument paired with a percussion sextet. From the rhythmic intricacies of "Concerto for Frame Drums & Percussion Sextet, Op. 41" to the haunting melodies of "Marwa" and the dynamic interplay in "Concerto for Vibraphone & Percussion Sextet, Op. 20," the ensemble delivers a compelling journey through contemporary percussion music. Other notable tracks include "Monolithics," "Concerto for Accordion & Percussion Sextet, Op. 49," "Glen," "70," and "Concerto for Horn & Percussion Sextet, Op. 54."
This album is a testament to the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble's enduring legacy and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of percussion performance. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of avant-garde music or a curious newcomer, this collection offers a thrilling exploration of the possibilities within the percussion sextet format. Dive into the world of innovative compositions and discover the timeless artistry of the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble.