byherndon

‘Jalopy’ in Percussive Notes

In addition to being a fun piece to play and program on a concert, it is also a great way to introduce young students to multiple-percussion score reading and basic extended playing techniques and notation. —Julie Licata Percussive Notes Vol. 56, No. 3, July 2018 You can check out the full review here.

‘Jalopy’s Most Important Audience

Last year I released a piece entitled Jalopy that is dedicated to my grandfather, Cleo “Grandaddy” Herndon, who passed away in 2009. During a trip in June to South Georgia I had the chance to play a recording of it for the most important audience that will ever hear it: Cleo’s widow, my grandmother, RosalynContinue reading “‘Jalopy’s Most Important Audience”

A Suitable Sound

The early-morning whirring of the insects Seems like a suitable sound For creatures careening ‘cross the universe to make as their sphere spins ‘round and ‘round

‘Begin Transmission’ on iTunes

There’s an impeccable performance of ‘Begin Transmission’ by Vandegrift High School Percussion Ensemble on iTunes from their concert at the Midwest Clinic in 2017. Check it out!

‘Close Your Eyes and Dream’ in Percussive Notes

Middle school directors looking for a simple melodic work for their program would find a good candidate in Close Your Eyes and Dream. The possible addition of vocals also makes it a great opportunity to collaborate with choral directors, and the option to augment the forces with flexible instrumentation makes this a good piece toContinue reading “‘Close Your Eyes and Dream’ in Percussive Notes”

Even We Are Good

All the leaves in the canopy The Lord knows every one Every grain of sand beneath the seas And baking in the sun All the flakes on every peak He calls them all by name He warms our hearths when he speaks Each leaping fiery flame Every soul you’ve every known He knitted them withContinue reading “Even We Are Good”

I Thank God For You

Just so you know, I thank God for you. Early in the morning as you come into view. Spontaneously throughout the day as you are sweet to me. Several times at night when you’re the final sight I see. I thank God for you’re walking mercy to me, Cherished wife of my youth, on ourContinue reading “I Thank God For You”

I Love These Legs

I love these legs. With their scrapes and bruises That serve as reminders they carry a little human who chooses Adventure. Whatever form it may take; Be it a run through the garden Or a swim in the lake. “Again!”, Is her battle cry When we throw the ball Or I lift her high. “Tay-TayContinue reading “I Love These Legs”

Living Lanterns

A summer stroll did one night yield A luminescent surprise: A harvest-ready lightning bug field With fireflies on the rise. I paused with my family there to note And to watch these miracles fly; Aleatoric embers floating Like living lanterns towards the sky.

A Summer Storm

To my ears a summer storm is all Sizzle, patter, rumble. To my eyes it’s puddle bubbles In the drive. To my nose, it’s wet earth; To my skin, liquid darts. But, I can’t describe A summer storm’s worth To my heart.