Radium 88 written by Joshua Albert is a fast paced marimba duet for one 5.0 octave and one 4.3 octave marimba, accompanied by kick drum and an Anvil. The metal used is a personal choice, but RA88 is heavily influenced by the great works of David Lang, and Rudiger Pawassar. Radium is heavy metal number 88 on the periodic table of elements, highly reactive and volatile in large quantities. RA88 will be premiered live in late Spring 2019 and is currently available in both digital and hard copy format.

XY recommends this work for schools with advanced players on concerts where limited instruments are available.

Duration ~< 5:00

“Ito Guruma” for marimba duet by Calvin Chiu, is an intriguing work that explores the possibilities of the instrument while maintaining an expressive musical character. Inspired by the manufacturing process of artisan “Ai Indigo” denim, “Ito Guruma” is the Japanese term of a spinning wheel that is being used for weaving after the yarn is dyed in Ai Inidigo. I am inspired by the deep thought and dedication behind the process of creating these beautiful handmade products. “Ito Guruma” was commissioned by and dedicated to the Gip Percussion Ensemble in Hong Kong, with funds by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council.

Duration: ~6:00

XY Recommends for Intermediate to Advanced Percussion duos. (Both parts being similar in difficulty)

Memento was written by Calvin Chiu for Hong Kong Percussionist Sophia Woo 

The piece, “Memento” for Vibraphone and 5.0 Octave Marimba, is inspired by the movie bearing the same name. The main character in the movie, Leonard, suffers from a rare form of memory loss; in order to find the person who murdered his wife, he uses a delicate system of tattoos and Polaroid photographs to retain information which he is unable to recall. I was particularly fascinated by the idea of retrieving information from the past by utilizing these small “motifs”, which almost serves as the sparks or reflection along his path of vengeance. Throughout this piece, the audience will hear an obsessive appearance of the “motif”, serving as flashback to the buried, unbearable memories of the past.

XYPublication recommends this piece for Young College to Graduate Level Percussionists

Absolute Zero- Duet for Two Marimbas by Joshua Albert, is an ethereal and contemplative duet that works well in the middle of recitals. Performers execute their ability to play together and hocket notes across from each other. A digital copy will be sent to you via e-mail.

XY Classifies this work as Medium-Hard left best for Intermediate to Expert level percussionists.

Absolute Zero- Duet for Two Marimbas by Joshua Albert, is an ethereal and contemplative duet that works well in the middle of recitals. Performers execute their ability to play together and hocket notes across from each other. A full hard copy score and parts will be sent to you.

XY Classifies this work as Medium-Hard left best for Intermediate to Expert level percussionists.

"Serengeti" is the second movement in the larger three movement duet for two percussionists THREE LANDSCAPES by Joshua Albert.

Played separately as a full work, Serengeti presents an attempt to emulate the mood and serenity of the African plains. Solo 5.0 Octave Marimba is the main focus along with percussion accompaniment both written to the part as well as room for improvisation.

XY Publications recommends any movement from Three Landscapes for an advanced marimba player and percussionist.

Duration ~ 6:00 Three Landscapes Duration ~ 17:00