Clave

Roger Braun

​
Percussion Ensemble
​(4,8, or 16 players)

Score (6 pages) 
*Players use score and play from memory
Duration 3-5 minutes

$10 pdf / $20 hard copy

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Program Note
Performed on claves or other wooden idiophones, the piece utilizes only one rhythmic pattern, the Cuban son clave rhythm. However, the pattern shifts to create up to sixteen rhythmic permutations, one for each player.  The originating rhythm is continually performed while the other players choose when to play their permutation, creating a shifting web of composite rhythm.  The piece ends when the permutations coalesce with the initial clave rhythm through phasing, a rhythmic idea introduced by composer Steve Reich. 

Instrumentation and Description

Instrumentation
Four, eight, or sixteen percussionists perform on claves or other wooden idiophones (slabs of wood for example). Pitches are up to the discretion of the performers but should be carefully considered.

In sixteen player versions assign each player one of the 16 rhythms. For eight player versions assign each player an odd numbered rhythm, and in four player versions use rhythms 1, 5, 9, and 13. 

It is possible to carefully use any number of players above four by selectively assigning rhythms (some may be doubled).

Clave and Reich
Clave is probably the most recognized rhythm in the world and is the rhythmic foundation of much Cuban music. There are two styles of clave—son and rumba, and each can be played two ways.

This piece utilizes son clave in the 2-3 version (rhythm #1). Here the measure with 2 notes comes first. This measure can be called the “2 side” while the 2nd bar can be called the “3 side”.

The compositional approach used in this piece is inspired by the music of Steve Reich. The idea of one rhythm being performed with its permutations can be found in many Reich pieces such as Clapping Music and Pieces of Wood. Phasing, an idea that Reich originally created in his work with tape loops, can be found in his early work, particularly “Drumming”.