Marubatoo is based on “Maruba”, a composition for marimba and tuba. The original solo marimba part remains intact. The tuba part is given to the bass marimba, generally assuming a melodic role, highlighted by crotales and song bells.

Fauna is an experimental piece combining electronic and acoustic musical instruments, and it is also programmatic in nature. Inspiration for the music arose from the experience of seeing the incredibly gentle and vulnerable wildlife of Australia during NEXUS’ first visit to that continent in 1986.

Originally conceived and performed as a solo piece in 1976, Cymbal was revised and reorchestrated for NEXUS in 1988. All of the sounds heard on the recording of this piece were produced acoustically in real time by the performers.

Rain Tree belongs to Takemitsu’s “Rain Series” and is scored for vibraphone, two marimbas and crotales.

A rhythmic motif or series of tones can recall music heard in the past. Remembrance was written for NEXUS and is dedicated to an old porch swing.

JOHN WYRE

1. Marubatoo

WILLIAM CAHN

2. Fauna

BOB BECKER

3. Cymbal

TORU TAKEMITSU

4. Rain Tree

ROBIN ENGELMAN

5. Remembrance