Kenneth Froelich

Tock

Tock is a single movement work for concert band that uses percussion and asymmetrical rhythms to mimic the "tocking" of a broken clock. The repetition of melodies and of motive fragments are used to establish a regular pulse; however, while this pulse is steady, it is not even. A five-four time signature, a syncopated bass line and irregular phrases are all used to offset the central beat of the music. Much like the clock, the end result is a dance that seems consistent but is in fact "broken." Its a work that is both fascinating and creative, excellent cutting-edge writing for upper-level ensembles.