Learn to play percussion
Percussive instruments are much more than just a group of drums. They can be played by shaking, or striking either a bar of wood or metal (e.g. cymbals, triangles, glockenspiel) or a membrane (e.g. tambourine, drums).
Percussive instruments are much more than just a group of drums. They can be played by shaking, or striking either a bar of wood or metal (e.g. cymbals, triangles, glockenspiel) or a membrane (e.g. tambourine, drums).
Why learn?
Solo exponents of classical percussion, including Evelyn Glennie and Colin Currie, have shown just how colourful and exciting percussion can be. From timpani to the xylophone and tubular bells, you'll never be bored - just look at the back of an orchestra to see the huge array of instruments laid out for one percussionist.
Getting a Taste
Drum Dances (1993)
John Psathas
Drum Kit & Piano
Commissioned by Evelyn Glennie
Street Songs
Evelyn Glennie / King's Singers
RCA 09026631752
Striking a Balance
Colin Currie
EMI Debut CDZ 57722672
Buying advice
Most players start learning the drums - you can pick up a good set for around £550. As for buying the rest - timpani, tambourines, cow bells, gongs, cymbals and triangle, to name but a few - most orchestras and colleges have their own kit. It is a question of learning on site.
Webwatch
An excellent guide to all the instruments in the drum family is on the Drum Encyclopedia site.
