Years of snare research and development brings us to the conclusion that runs contrary to the traditional concept of snare functionality. By questioning everything believed to be true about snare response, we unearthed the shocking truth: Just because you play at the edge of the top (batter) head, does NOT mean that the bottom (snare) head will vibrate at the edge. The fact is that the sound produced by snares comes from the center sector of the bottom head. Think of it this way, you would not jump at the edge of a trampoline. That’s because most of the movement and energy comes from the center section of the trampoline’s surface. So, while playing softly at the edge of the...
Model TR-5 "Super-Overtone" triangleThe triangle is an idiophonic musical instrument of the percussion family. It is a bar of metal, most usually steel in modern instruments, bent into a triangle shape. One of the angles is left open, with the ends of the bar not quite touching - this causes the instrument to be of indeterminate pitch. It is usually suspended from one of the other corners by a piece of thin wire or gut, leaving it free to vibrate. It is usually struck with a metal beater, giving a high-pitched, ringing tone. In folk music it is more often hooked over the hand so that one side can be damped by the fingers to vary the tone. The pitch...
There are a number of percussion myths that are circulating, such as "warming up crash cymbals". In all my years of playing cymbals with both the Boston Pops and Boston Symphony, I have never played a crash where I think the cymbals spoke late - EVER. And that includes using my 22"monsters for Wagner! I always let my ears determine what works and what doesn't. Thoughtful product design and fundamental acoustic principles should prevail over unfounded "beliefs". Like science deniers, there seems to be a small number of misguided percussionists. On more than one occasion I have heard percussionists claim that tambourines with "in-line" jingles have clearer or quicker articulation than those (like our pro models) which feature "staggered" jingles....
The Grover Pro Quick-Adjust™ Castanet Machine is the “do-all” castanet solution for percussionists of all skill levels! Two thumb wheels facilitate quick and easy “dialing in” of the desired tension. No more guessing—now you can quickly be in complete control of the castanet tension setting! This versatile machine can be played either on a tabletop or mounted onto any standard cymbal stand. By providing total flexibility in positioning, this castanet machine allows you to place it exactly where you want it. Grover Pro Advantages Solid Granadillo wood clappers Solid Oak frame “Quick-Adjust” tension adjustment wheels Rubber isolation feet Play on table or on cymbal stand Limited Lifetime Guarantee Just another great Grover Pro product designed by percussionists for percussionists!...
Our good friend, Mark Shelton, will be presenting this January at the Florida Music Education Association Convention in Tampa.
Mark's presentation, Teaching Improvisation With The Drum Circle, will be an informative, entertaining look into the issues facing young students wishing to learn the art of rhythmic improvisation.
If you haven't experienced a Mark Shelton drum circle for yourself YOU ARE IN FOR A REAL TREAT!
You can learn more about Mark's activities at: MarkSheltonMusic.com
