A Ni Sogoma
This work has an engaging melody shared by handbells and handchimes and
featuring malleted notes and mart-lifts with nicely-placed LV passages.
Dynamics and tempo changes add to the engaging rhythmic effect of this
original work.
The composer writes:
"With all that happened in our country this summer (2020), my thought for this piece was to put to use increased reflection on racial awareness, and incorporate djembe rhythms out of West Africa. I found it notable that in Mali, using music to call people to gather had the connotation of gathering in harmony and peace. The traditional music of Mali is under persecution now. Separated by COVID-19 restrictions and many other barriers (that) we and they experience, the idea of hoping to meet together again in harmony and peace is something we all want. I used one main rhythm; historically, it announced the arrival of the King: a ni sogoma. Two other djembe rhythms are found in mm. 53-62, layered on top of each other."