Timpani Notes

Some music will require the timpanist to change notes during the performance. The key in these situations is for the tuning process to go unnoticed by the audience. Here are some techniques to help tune quietly during a performance:

• Use an availible pitch reference, such as a playing wind instrument or another drum. If necessary, use a very quiet tool, such as a tuning fork, to get the pitch in your ear. Do not use a pitch pipe or a pitched percussion instrument in this situation as this may be audible to the audience.

• Lower your ear close the the surface of the drum (4-6") to better hear the pitch while making as little sound as possible.

• Rather than striking the drum with a mallet to hear the pitch, pluck the head with the tip of your finger. Place the tip of your finger near the beating spot and pull toward you (like plucking a string). This will cause the head to ring, but will not create an articulation that might be heard over the ensemble.

• Anticipate and practice on-the-fly tuning responsibilities