Research: A style discussion of The Magic Marimba by Hans Roosenschoon / Portfolio of Musics

Abstract

The Magic Marimba is an orchestral composition by the South African composer Hans Roosenschoon. Based on the opera Die Zauberflöte by W. A. Mozart, this work illustrates the composer s ability to fabricate an entire composition from existing material in such a way that is innovative and original. The concept of reimagining material from an existing source is fortified by a series of techniques employed by the composer to transfigure material into a new creation. It is the purpose of this study to examine these techniques and to provide a detailed description of the stylistic elements within which these techniques have been implemented. The stylistic elements that are considered in each of the three movements are structure, melodic content, harmonic aspects and texture. Fascinating features that resulted from this study include structural devices such as sound blocks that the composer utilised to harness the music structurally, manipulation techniques to alter melodic extractions from the opera to disguise the quotations and to recreate new and exciting gestures, the employment of intricate pandiatonic clusters created through the superimposition of all pitches from diatonic scales and the creation of the impression of dimensions through the textural landscape in this work that moves through various degrees of densities in order to evoke the sensation of tension and subsequent release. These concepts are thoroughly addressed and examined through multiple illustrated examples and graphs. The study includes a brief historical overview of the composition and explains the political background as well as the composer s artistic response. This does not, however, form part of the primary focus as it is beyond the scope of this study. This study serves as a foundation for further researchers who wish to do a stylistic analysis of any part of the composer s oeuvre.