Composer of the Month: Joseph Pereira


Joseph Pereira is the new Principal Timpanist of the LA Philharmonic (and had been Assistant Timpanist and Percussionist with the New York Philharmonic since 1998), but is also becoming a force in the world of composition. His works have been played around the world, including performances at Darmstadt and in Alice Tully Hall. Pereira's harmonic language is "Bracing and astringent" (Anthony Tommasini, New York Times), the perfect challenge for any advanced percussion student or professional. Try his multi-percussion solo Word of Mouth for 8 drums (4 dry, 4 resonant). Pereria's quartet Facing the Mirror and solo In Other Words feature percussion and tape. Or try his works for mixed instrumentation: Three Movements for Violin and Vibraphone and Bento Box (for alto flute, guitar, and vibraphone). Click the titles for audio samples.