Timpani

Suggested

Ranges

About Our

Suggested

Ranges

Sticks

The timpanist has an assortment of sticks or mallets from which to choose. These vary from soft fabric type heads to hard wooden ones. The harder sticks produce a louder, sharper tone, and the softer sticks produce a rounder, softer tone. The timpanist can decide which sticks work best for any given passage.

Final Thoughts

Rhythmically, the timpani can play anything other percussion instruments can play. The only consideration needed to be given is toward the tuning of notes. Using four different drums, a skilled timpanist can accommodate many pitch changes. But keep in mind, not every note of a bass line needs to be accented by the timpani. Choose only those notes that need the most emphasis. This not only will be easier for the timpanist to play, but also for the listener to hear.