Downloads

All of the downloads currently on this page are free. Check back periodically for new music and sound clips.

To purchase full arrangements of Mike's original indoor percussion ensemble works, please go to: Xtremebrass.com and JKS Music.

Clips from "Say It With Pan"

Front Ensemble Exercises

Havana

Here's a warm-up that I've been using for a some time with many of my ensembles to work on double strokes. Have your drumset player play a songo along with the keyboards or use your auxiliary percussion players to add an Afro-Cuban feel.

I usually have my players learn all of the keyboard lines. Then I split them into groups 3 groups, 1 group for each line, and have them play the exercise. Have each group switch to the next line after each repetition. For more fun and excitement, change the key!

Download Havana

Listen to it!

Car Sick

This exercise is a variation on an ideo-kinetic exercise inspired by Gordon Stout, improving speed and accuracy by increasing the awareness of the keyboard. When the tempo starts to get faster the exercise sounds like it should be in 4/4, disorienting the listener. The effect reminds me of when I used to read comic books in the car as a kid and get really sick to my stomach!

Download Car Sick

Listen to it!

Percussion Ensemble Music

Life Cycle

Originally the 2nd movement of the 1998 Blue Knights World Percussion Ensemble show, Circular Momentum, Life Cycle stands on it's own as a percussion ensemble piece.

This arrangement is scored for Bells, 2 Vibes, 2 Marimbas, Bass, Drums and Percussion.

Download Life Cycle

Listen to it!

All music on this page created with:
Sibelius 4, Virtual Drumline 2, and
Kontakt 2.

All recordings made possible by:
Audacity and WireTap Pro.

B.O.

B.O. is a four mallet exercise focusing on lateral strokes and vertical strokes. No, B.O. does not stand for body odor. (Unless you tend to sweat a lot while you play) For the real explanation, you'll have to ask Brian Calhoon. (Blue Devils Front Ensemble '03-'05)

Download B.O.

Listen to it!

Upper Darby Pit Members

Log In Below