A timpani is a large drum made up of a bowl-like body made of copper or brass covered by animal skin or plastic. It is played by striking the head with a timpani mallet or stick to produce a variety of pitches. It is commonly used in military, classical orchestral, modern rock, marching, and concert applications.
A machine timpani uses a mechanical system for altering the head tension.
It is made with a fiberglass kettle in the traditional deep, parabolic shape.
It is made with metal legs for balance.
It usually comes with a tuning gauge.
It has a diameter of 26 to 29 inches.
Pedal timpani
A pedal timpani is the most frequently used timpani.
It has a built-in pedal mechanism that adjusts the head tension by connecting the pedal to the instrument’s tension screws through an array of metal rods.
It comes with an extended collar, a tuning gauge, and a textured pedal.
It uses three pedal mechanism types: balanced action, post and clutch or friction clutch, and ratchet-clutch system.
It has a diameter of 26 to 29 inches.
Chain timpani
A chain timpani is made with a roller chain connected to the tension rod.
It uses a single handle to adjust the tension of the rod according to preference.
It is commonly used to play unique low and high notes in professional performances.
Timpani head: For water resistance, choose a timpani with a head made of durable plastic or PET film. If you are a professional timpani player who wants to achieve a richer and warmer timbre, choose a timpani head made of genuine animal skin such as calf skin. Timpani stick: If you are a professional timpani player, invest in several timpani stick types (aluminum, graphite, wood), so you can experiment with the different timbres each one produces.
Sponsored Products And Services
Directory
Are you a manufacturer or supplier? Be listed here! EMAIL US
Are You Picky, Too? Contribute To This Guide!
Do you have something to add to this guide? If your suggestion passes our editorial standards, we will add it in and acknowledge you as a contributor.
