The Percussion Family

Percussion instruments are often defined as instruments that are either struck, shaken or scraped. They can be divided either definite pitch instruments, where the actual pitch of the note can be determined, or indefinite pitch instruments, when the pitch of the note cannot be defined. It is the most varied group of orchestra instruments, and arranged behind the orchestra. They are appreciated for its ability to produce a variety of rhythms, textures and tonal colors. (Blackwood 1993, Itashiki 2006)


Timpani

  • The timpani is the only drum with that can produce definite musical notes.
  • It is tuned using the keys around the edge of the skin.
  • It is struck using padded mallets.
  • Often used as 'musical thunders' and drum rolls.

(Blackwood 1993, Itashiki 2006, Jesse et al. 1998)

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Snare Drum

  • The snare drum has two skins: the lower skin has a metal wire strung across it, called the snare, so that when the upper skin is struck, the wire vibrates to produce its characteristic rattling sound.
  • It produces a brisk and sharp sound.
  • It is similar to the military drums used in marches.
  • It can also be used to make 'rim shots', creating the effect of gun shots.

(Blackwood 1993, Itashiki 2006, Jesse et al. 1998)

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Bass Drum

  • The bass drum is played with a soft stick, usually struck on its side.
  • It produces a low, resonant sound.
  • The player may 'stop' sounds from going on for too long by touching the drum head with his/her hand.

(Blackwood 1993, Itashiki 2006, Jesse et al. 1998)

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Xylophone

  • The xylophone is a definite pitch instrument
  • It consists of horizontally placed wooden bars of different sizes, each tuned to a different pitch.
  • It is struck with hard sticks at very high speeds, producing a bright and sharp sound.

(Blackwood 1993, Itashiki 2006, Jesse et al. 1998)

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Tubular Bells

  • Tubular bells consist of 12-18 metal tubes of different lengths, suspended from a frame.
  • It is struck with hammers to produce its sounds.
  • The sound produced is similar to the sound of church bells.

(Blackwood 1993, Itashiki 2006, Jesse et al. 1998)

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Cymbals

  • Cymbals are indefinite pitch instruments.
  • It is crashed together to produce a single, dramatic noise.
  • Smaller cymbals are often supported on a stand and struck with various types of drumsticks.

(Blackwood 1993, Itashiki 2006, Jesse et al. 1998)

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