Multi-Percussion is a fantastic musical medium that can invite equal creative energy from both the composer and performer. Below are three ideas I like to be mindful of. Consider what multi-percussion is. The composer is asking you to combine several different percussion instruments to create something new, a hybrid instrument. A snare drum alone has its own voice, identity, and function, but when combined with a high-hat, bass drum, tom toms, and ride cymbal, it becomes part of a communal collective, its roll (no pun intended) changes. Like drumset, the combining of multiple percussion instruments should create a new “social order” among the chosen group of instruments. Give the music direction. A tonal melody has a built-in automatic guide for...
Chimes, (or tubular bells), are perhaps the most awkward percussion instrument to play. They are bulky, rather tall, and like all keyboard percussion instruments, you need to visually locate the correct note to accurately strike. That makes it almost impossible to read music, watch a conductor AND play the right notes, all at the same time! While most percussionists ignore practicing on chimes, I always found it useful to do a minimal amount of familiarization with the instrument, after all, as an orchestral percussionist, I am called on quite often to play chimes. Things to remember when playing chimes (tubular bells): Always strike the tubes on the top cap. Only use good quality chime hammers, preferable double sided (hard/soft). Position...
Tchaikovsky's Symphony #6 includes one solo soft gong (tam-tam) note in the last movement. Ask any orchestral percussionist, playing this note at just the right dynamic level can be a tricky ordeal. Last week, while playing this part with the Boston Symphony at Tanglewood, I had plenty of time to think about the issues involved. While it went well and I felt very good after the performance, it didn't hurt that a long standing colleague in the percussion section complimented me on the solo note! Here are some tips to remember when playing gong/tam-tam: Be sure to inspect the suspension cord prior to rehearsal. (Replace if frayed.) Softly and silently "warm-up" the instrument before striking. Experiment and find a good...
Here's a great new tambourine lesson from Florida State University Professor John Parks. In addition to his duties at FSU, John performs with the Tallahassee Symphony and is the President-Elect of the Percussive Arts Society.
We're constantly adding to our "Tech-Talk" section of our website. The newest video lesson is from percussion educator Patrick Herring, who breaks down the elements of holding and striking the tambourine.
As Director of the percussion ensemble for the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra, Patrick works with young percussionists and understands the myriad of challenges they face.
Have an idea for a future "Tech-Talk"? Just send us an email at: mail@groverpro.com. We look forward to hearing your ideas!
