I heard someone talking about Rhythm song in the replies to the PASIC reviews. Someone said there was a time when Rhythm Song and Mexican Dances were the only two widely known piece. I'm beginning to learn this piece and was wondering about its development and if there were any notes from Smadbeck about this piece? Thanx

Greg,
Paul wrote Rhythm Song either while he was a student of mine at Ithaca College or soon after, I don't remember. No, it's not true that RS and Mexican Dances were ever the only widely known pieces.
When Paul came to Ithaca he couldn't even read music.. but he just had "something" so I accepted him, This was about 1974-75. ?? I let him search different areas of percussion to see what attracted him. Once he discovered the marimba it was all over. That was it !! He was a natural..and loved it..he worked hours and hours to learn to play..Ta fantastic musician.... then he started writing... He went to grad school with J.C. Combs in Wichita, where he discovered JC's penchant for wrestling pieces!! :>) (JC, are you out there?) Later he "retired" from the music world and now works in NYC. Great guy!
Bill Youhass
Fall Creek Marimbas
www.marimbas.com