For Triangles

For percussion quartet of 4 triangles

Written for the So Percussion Summer Institute

‘For Triangles’ has been performed by percussion ensembles at universities across the US, and by ensembles in Asia, Europe and South America.

Program note:

‘For Triangles’ is inspired by the simple design and complex sound of the triangle. It is an extended meditation on the sound and the playing techniques of the triangle through the framework of simple mathematic processes and gradually changing patterns. It uses orchestral and Latin playing techniques, and, while entirely acoustic, invokes electronic processing through careful physical manipulation of the instruments.

Press quote:

"The Los Angeles Percussion Quartet made its San Diego County debut, impressing with tight ensemble and musicality. Its concert winner was 'Triangles in the Shape of a Square' by festival founder and director Matt McBane.

McBane calls for four slightly differently-sized triangles, one to a player. Over the course of 20 minutes, different ways of playing a triangle slowly unfold under strict minimalist rhythmic procedures. As Steve Reich produced audible melodies from drums, so too did McBane from triangles. His exploration was so clever and delightful that I could have easily listened to 10 minutes more."

-Christian Hertzog, San Diego Union Tribune