Buss, HJ :: Modern Times

Howard Buss presents Modern Times for narrator, flute doubling piccolo, and four percussionists.

'A powerful, dramatic depiction of life in our time. Provocative, at times mystical, and occasionally humorous, this work addresses an eclectic range of subjects such as taxes, neglected children, team mascots, and the information glut. The tenor of Buss social commentary is somewhere between the witty jeering of Mark Twain and the pithy insights of Sinclair Lewis. In his free verse one finds provocation without violence and intense anger without profanity.'

- The Tampa Tribune.

The sophisticated music of MODERN TIMES transports the poetry into the dramatic and colorful sound world of the flute and percussion ensemble. The result is a unique and fresh view of the culture(s) in which we live. The writing is mature and fresh, yet is within reach of a solid college ensemble.

Movements (that may be performed separately): I. Info Glut, II. Night Tide, III. The Hunt, V. Five Question Interlude, V. The Asphalt Blanket, VI. To a Neglected Child, VII. Giggles!?!, VIII. Modern Times.

Percussion distribution: Perc. 1: Xylophone, lion roar, tam-tam, vibraslap, 2 suspended cymbals, Chinese bell tree & bongos;
Perc.2: Marimba, snare drum, bass drum, 2 anvils (metal pipes may be substituted), glass jug or jars (to be broken for the sonic effect), conga drum, wind chimes & triangle;
Perc. 3: Vibes, roto toms, tambourine, tam-tam, police whistle, shaker, duck call;
Perc. 4: Orchestra bells, timpani (4), agogo bells, 2 suspended cymbals, hi-hat, wind chimes, wood block, frog croak (may be imitated vocally), boing box effect (a flexitone may be substituted), triangle & guiro.