Timpani

Here are some films describing the construction and performing techniques of the Timpani. A pitched skinned drum for the orchestra.

Timpani (1)

In the following video clips David Corkhill of the Philharmonia Orchestra introduces various aspects of the timpani and timpani playing. The timpani is large drum consisting of a skin (plastic or calf) stretched over a copper bowl. The tuning is adjusted by cranking keys around the rim, or with a foot pedal. Enlarge the image opposite to see a set of modern pedal timpani. This film includes comments about the ranges of individual timpani, using guages, sound qualities of various beaters and more...

Timpani (2)

This film includes more tips and tricks for playing the timpani as well as using it more effectively in compositions. Some comments include rolls, pedal glissando, ranges of glissando and more...