Tempo
Sits at 128 bpm—a sweet spot for energy and control. It’s fast enough to excite but slow enough to teach and clean.
Rudiments
Hertas, diddles, flams, and accented rolls appear throughout, especially in snare and tenor voices. Requires comfort with layered rudiments and dynamic shifts.
Stickings
Written stickings are essential for flow and voicing clarity. Players must manage quick hand switches, layered dynamics, and consistent flow across ensemble parts.
Rhythm / Syncopation
Rhythms are heavily tied to the chantable vocal line and include ensemble syncopation and offbeat entries. Must be locked in tightly across sections for impact.
Snare Complexity
Demands precise articulation and rebound control. Combines groove-oriented phrases with layered rudiments and some exposed backbeat figures.
Tenor Complexity
Tenors carry the lead voice and play wide-motion passages, including sweep strokes, accented doubles, and frequent use of multiple zones. Demands visual energy and musicality.
Bass Complexity
Contains aggressive multi-drum splits, quick voice handoffs, and layered rhythmic responses to the tenors. Basses must stay unified and precise across dynamic shifts.
Cymbal Complexity
Cymbals lead the visuals, with timed crashes, chokes, slides, claps, and hi-hat-style hits. Execution and timing matter more than raw chops. Visually driven.
Ensemble Coordination
High coordination needed—cymbals, snares, basses, and tenors all trade lines and callouts. Pose hits, rests, and chant moments must land exactly.
Endurance
Short form and loopable, with rests built in. Players can perform this piece multiple times with minimal fatigue, even at high energy.
