2 mallet solo – Kaylie Dunstan

Pizza Taco

Kaylie6132 — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:27:39 +0000

Percussionists might not be able to pluck their xylophone to get a ‘pizzicato’ sound like stringed instruments, but we can at least make fun of the name and play with the some energy. Playing ‘staccato’ on percussion can be achieved by short, sharp up strokes, which are present through this entire composition. The performer’s counting and sense of beat will also be tested, as this music is quite spacious. Set at a grade 1 level, it’s enjoyable to learn for someone who has some reading skills under their belt.

Ode to Joe

Kaylie6132 — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:10:49 +0000

Ode to Joe is a variations on a theme starting in 3/4 and goes through various other time signatures alterations. It involves rolls, fast arpeggios and several flats in the key signature. Rated at approximately grade 5 level, the performer gets to demonstrate their control and dexterity across the instrument.

Mallet Drop

Kaylie6132 — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:06:24 +0000

Make a statement with this simple, but catchy 2-mallet solo. Written at a grade 1 level, the opening is cheery enough, but builds with heightened anticipation towards the end, finishing with a quasi ‘mic drop’ emphasis.

Luca’s March

Kaylie6132 — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 20:42:33 +0000

An upbeat, feel-good 2-mallet solo in the style of a march. The performer showcases their rolling ability, as well as parallel octaves. The all-familiar chromatic tag transitioning into the final section is testament to musical clichés that don’t go out of style. Flair is also achieved with some glissandi, which are always fun to play. This piece approaches grade 4 level.

Chasings

Kaylie6132 — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 06:35:17 +0000

A fun, intermediate piece for 2-mallet xylophone. Show off your performance flair with glissandi galore in this playful solo. The imagination doesn’t have to stretch very far to see this age-old game playing out with the notes twisting and turning and anticipation bubbling. The percussionist is challenged to fluidly work the mallets around each other while maintaining optimal mallet placement and note accuracy during the fast-paced passages. This piece is considered grade 5 level.