
2016 / Chamber Music
DURATION
4 minutes, 15 secondsINSTRUMENTATION
percussion quartet
- Hi, My Name is Pecker. TorQ Percussion Quartet 04:22
Programme Notes
Pecker is the title character from John Waters’ 1998 film. A sandwich shop employee from Baltimore, Pecker becomes an overnight sensation when the quirky photos he takes of his eccentric family make waves in the art world. The character gets his name because, much like a bird, he pecks at his food in a charmingly unassuming way.
This short, quirky composition captures the innocent, happy-go-lucky essence of Pecker. He’s curious about the world around him, but his curiosity is gentle—not aggressive. In turn, the world embraces Pecker with open arms.
Performed with a unique blend of 17 different percussion instruments by four percussionists, this composition seeks to evoke the understated charm and warmth of Pecker, celebrating his endearing presence in the world.
– Frank Horvat
Instrument Inventory:
Percussionist 1
2 Wood Blocks
Indonesian Toy Gamelan Metalophone (A, C#, D, E, A, C#)
Singing Bowl
Triangle
Percussionist 2
3 Cowbells
Tambourine
Indian Ankle Bells
Tiny Keyboard with Crappy Organ Sounds
Kick Drum
Percussionist 3
Wind Chimes
3 Graduated Pitch Wood Blocks
5 Pitched Bells (C, D, E, F, A)
Maracas
Percussionist 4
Log Drum
Claves
Small Bongos
Small Tam Tam



RECORDING
Project Dovetail
TorQ Percussion Quartet (Richard Burrows, Adam Campbell, Jamie Drake, Daniel Morphy)
Producer: Frank Horvat
Label: Centrediscs
PERFORMANCE
World Premiere
March 22, 2016
TorQ Percussion Quartet
Canadian Music Centre
Toronto, Canada