Timpani Notes
A Band Director's Reference for Kettle Drums
Timpani Grip
Professional timpanists can and do utilize a number of techniques to create the exact quality of sound called for in the music. A well-trained player can use slight alterations of grip and technique to achieve a variety of colors and nuances. Beginning players can start their journey to such control by learning three basic grips.
All grips start by creating a fulcrum, or pivot-point, between the thumb and forefinger. For timpani, the fulcrum should be a third of the way up the mallet. The player should hold the stick in the first knuckle of the index finger and grip with the pad of the thumb; there should be space between the tip of the finger and the thumb. The last three fingers wrap gently, with a natural curve, around the stick. Keep the fingers in contact with the mallet without restricting the rebound.
German Grip
The German grip provides a powerful stroke, but a less nuanced touch. The palms face down, with the thumbnails facing in. The elbows should come out and the mallet shafts point in at a 90 degree angle. This grip is similar to playing the snare drum with a matched grip.
French Grip
The French grip provides a lighter touch, but not the power of the German grip. The thumbs go on the top of the stick with the thumbnails facing up, palms facing in toward each other. The mallets stay close to parallel. The action for the stroke comes from the fingers and a rotation in the forearm, similar to turning a doorknob.
American Grip
The American grip is a hybrid of the two above grips. The thumbnails face up and toward each other at a 45 degree angle. This grip provides a moderate volume stroke and a range of articulations
