Duplex.(Book Review)

Duplex, for 4 melodic timpani, multiple percussion and piano (3 players), by Jean Batigne. Gerard Billaudot/Theodore Presser (588 N. Gulph Rd., King of Prussia, PA 19406), 2000. Parts and score, $23.95. Difficult.

The degree of difficulty indicated on the title page of Jean Batigne's trio Duplex is accurate: difficult (9). Whereas the piano part is idiomatic and straightforward, percussionists are challenged on several levels: reading the parts, interpreting the music and executing some extraordinarily nonidiomatic writing.

One percussionist plays on four timpani and ratchet. The other plays a multiple percussion setup consisting of a seven-piece drumset supplemented by a woodblock, pedal-operated tambourine, triangle and slapstick.

The timpanist is the featured member of the trio, carrying the majority of melodic weight. The footwork required to execute the pitch changes surpasses that required to perform the Bartok Sonata for Two Pianos and Percussion and any of the Delecluse timpani etudes. The notation clearly indicates which drums are to be used for each pitch; however, at the tempi indicated, there is little opportunity for the feet to maneuver between the drums to facilitate the changes. An example can be seen thirteen measures into letter C. Chromatic quarter notes change on three drums in a single measure. In other passages one drum is required to make leaps of thirds during successive sixteenth notes. In brief, the intonation skills required to perform this piece are beyond most timpanists' abilities. Pitch to drum indications are given throughout, but no preparatory changes are given--the player will have to thoughtfully and ...