| Timpani |
|
The shell of timpani is made of copper and the sound is produced by a plastic drum head. The modern orchestra utilizes 4 timpani, each of which can quickly be tuned in the range of fifth or sixth by using the built-in pedal tuning system. Typical tasks for timpani are tremolo and powerful accents, but also glissando can be performed. Different felt mallets, ranging from soft to hard, are used to play the timpani, depending on the desired tone. Even complex melodies may be played on the contemporary timpani, but they are used mostly for accompaniment.
Listen to the audio samples:
Timpani (79 KB) |
