Colores del Trópico

 Originally written as a set of rough sketches for the Tambuco Percussion Ensemble during their new music reading workshop at Michigan State University, Colores del Trópico later grew into a standalone piece that can be performed by four medium-advanced level percussionists. Drawing inspiration from my Cuban heritage and the music my grandmother shared with me growing up in Florida, this piece fully embodies the groove, color, and spontaneity of the tropics. Designed to be open and improvisatory in spirit, the piece invites performers to extend or interpret material freely, relying more on ensemble intuition than strict notation. It’s meant to be fun, rhythmically vibrant, and easily shaped by the musicians who bring it to life.
-Note from the composer

This piece was written as a part of Tambuco Percussion’s new music workshop and guest residency at Michigan State University in November of 2024.