Percussion
There are literally thousands of instruments that are considered members of the percussion family. And even with all those different kinds, there are really only two types of percussion instruments: those that make a definite pitch, and those that don't. While timpanis, marimbas and xylophones play specific pitches like C# or A, cymbals, triangles and snares make sounds like 'crash,' 'ding,' and 'bam.' In general, percussion instruments have been around for thousands of years and have been used for religious ceremonies, frightening the enemy in warfare and to embellish an orchestra or concert band.
Timpani
The timpani drums were first developed in the 14th century and were
such a symbol of prestige in Germany that no one under the rank of
baron could own one. Also called 'kettle drums,' they play certain
pitches and are tuned by the player. A timpanist uses pedals on the
floor to change the pitch of the instrument and it is considered to be
the most difficult and specialized percussion instrument. Known for its
commanding boom, it is used frequently. In fact, there are very few
orchestral pieces that do not feature the timpani.
The Parts of the Timpani
- The striking point is where the player hits his mallets, which creates the sound.
- The tension screws are used to tune the timpani to a certain pitch.
- The resonator is the "kettle" where the sound is created.
- If a timpanist needs to change the pitch of the instrument quickly, they use the pedal.
Xylophone
First introduced in 1874, the xylophone is a pitched percussion
instrument. The player uses mallets to hit wooden blocks. The sound
goes through a resonator, which amplifies the sound. Each block plays a
different pitch and they are arranged to look like a keyboard.
Sometimes featured in orchestras, it sometimes doubles soprano voices
like flutes or violins.