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How do you play a good roll on a Timpani?
By kevin | September 13, 2007
How to roll on a Timpani is something I never knew as a young percussionist - in fact the first time I tried to play them I tried to play a buzz roll, and really looked like I didn’t know what I was doing!
The Timpani are an Orchestral instrument, and are a vital part ofthe heart of the Orchestra or Concert Band. Every percussionist should know how to play a basic Timpani roll, even if they don’t regularly play them.
Some basic points for the Timpani roll are:
1) Use single stroke rolls at all times – never use double or “pressed” rolls on a Timpani
2) Look for the ideal striking zone – half way between center and edge is a good place to start, but it varies on different drums
3) Vary the roll speed depending on the size and tension of the drum – For a bigger, lower pitched drum you have to roll slower, and as you increase the pitch you need to roll faster.
4) Concentrate on smoothness rather than volume – The volume will happen by itself if you get your strokes moving smoothly. Work on the practice pad on playing smooth “piston strokes”, and then keep your stroke heights under control.
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