Composition - Jack in a Box

A fun xylophone solo commissioned by the Bilton Silver (Rugby) band for talented up and coming percussionist Jack Fisher. Circa 2'30". Soloist: Grade 5 ABRSM.       Section: 4+

From the many musicians I have had the privilege to compose for this piece has probably been the most enjoyable.

The reason being was because I was approached by members of the Bilton Silver (Rugby) Band to compose a xylophone solo for one of their young percussionists Jack Fisher. Jack is no stranger to me as I have had the privilege to teach him whilst he has been a student with the National Children’s Brass Band of Great Britain. He certainly is a player to watch out for in the future and not only is he talented; he is also a great character as well.

When the members of Bilton Silver Band conversed with me about the proposed commission, they said they wanted a solo that represented Jack’s cheeky and fun loving nature. They also wanted a solo that wasn’t too demanding for the young starlet and so it gave the opportunity for other up and coming percussionists to play as well.

The piece is quick and fun and it provides a solo for percussionists who are developing as players to work on. It is enjoyable to listen to and it’s proving to be a bit of a foot-tapper as well with audiences.

When I was a child I had an old Jack-in-a-box toy that played the nursery rhyme pop goes the weasel before Jack popped out and scared the life out of me. So for a bit of fun I have quoted pop goes the weasel in the solo which aptly lead me to the suitable title for the piece Jack in a Box.

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