Schlagzeug (Axis Mundi)

An axis mundi (also cosmic axis, world axis, world pillar and center of the world) 

is a symbol representing the center of the world where the heaven (sky) connects 

with the earth. Different cultures represent the axis mundi by varied symbols such

as a natural object (a mountain, a tree, etc) or of a product of human manufacture

(a tower,, a totem pole, a pillar, etc.). In this piece, the tuba, a brass tower, is 

imagined as the AXIS MUNDI. It references five types of World Music having 

religious, or ritual significance.

The didgeridoo is an aerophone played by aboriginal peoples in Australia. The 

music consists mostly of a rapidly articulated drone. Multiphonics, especially 

the 10th, are produce by singing while playing. Circular breathing is also an 

important. Besides playing alone, it is also accompanied by rhythm sticks.

A mandala, (Sanskrit: “circle”) in Hindu and Buddhist Tantrism, a symbolic diagram

used in the performance of sacred rites and as an vehicle of meditation. In this 

movment the tubaist sings multiphonics, simulating the chanting of Tibetan monks.

A Griot is member of a class of traveling poets, musicians, and storytellers who 

maintain a tradition of oral history in parts of West Africa.

Taqsim is one of the principal instrumental genres of Arabic and Turkish classical 

music. It is generally melismatic, with a free sense of pulse.

A mantra is a short repeated phrase used as an aid in meditation.