“Summertime” by G. Gershwin was part of the inspiration for
this solo. Listening to this piece of music can give the
performer an idea of the mood for For “Blue Wood.”
For the most part this solo uses basic independent four mallet
technique. The wide interval changes can be difficult but can
be worked out with good stroke preparation. Careful study of L.H. Steven’s four mallet method book would be quite helpful.
Using a mandolin roll for the long held out note “E” (one
mallet above the bar, the other below,) is one possible choice
for performance. Using this type of a roll makes it easier to
maneuver the melody in the right hand.
