Body percussion in the band repertoire

Abstract

When analyzing the band music repertoire, which includes works composed for wind ensemble as well as arrangements from orchestral compositions, an increase in the incorporation of body percussion as a compositional resource has been observed. This article focuses on the work La corrida de toros by Mario Bürki. The Swiss composer, in his descriptive symphonic poem, is dedicated to presenting the different parts of a Spanish bullfight, also called tercios if we stick to bullfighting terminology. Starting with the paseillo that leads the bullfighters into the arena, up to the tercio de muerte (third of death) in the final part. The composition includes sounds and rhythms combined with the percussion of different parts of the body. This paper presents a complete musicological analysis that contemplates structural, organological, harmonic and rhythmic parameters. Special attention is given to the aspects related to the musical function that body percussion plays in this composition.