This article and its accompanying video is the first of a series of cymbal lessons at Free Percussion Lessons that look at playing crash cymbals and using the teachings and lessons of Frank Epstein, Boston Symphony Orchestra Cymbalist (retired). Mr Epstein played with the Boston Symphony for 40 years and during that time he developed […]
How to Make a Triangle Clip
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The poor triangle is often mistreated and subjected to a variety of inappropriate methods of suspending the instrument in playing position. A good triangle clip allows that triangle to ring and vibrate to its maximum potential and it needs to be held in a stable manner so that it doesn’t swing and sway when the […]
How and When to Play a Buzz Roll on Timpani
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It doesn’t happen very often but when you are playing timpani with wooden sticks for baroque and early classical music like Bach, Hayden, and Handel or sometimes Mozart and you come across a roll in the timpani part it makes sense to play a buzz roll instead of a standard hand to hand timpani roll. […]
How to Tie a Cymbal Strap on to Your Crash Cymbals
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When your cymbal straps get old they need to be replaced or when you get a new pair of cymbals you’ll have to tie on the cymbal straps. Here’s how to tie the cymbal strap on your crash cymbals A cymbal strap is made from leather and either end of the strap is split so […]
How to Play the Tambourine
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The Basics of Playing the Tambourine Hold the tambourine in one hand and strike the head of the tambourine with your other hand. If you are right handed I suggest that you hold the tambourine in your left hand and strike it with your right. Different sounds are made depending on what part of your […]
How to Play a Simple Rhythm for a Drum Circle
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Drum Circles are a lot of fun, but if you’ve never been to one before you might not know what to expect and be a little inhibited and nervous. But, don’t worry! If you keep these things in mind you’ll have a great time and get a lot out of the experience. What’s a Drum […]
How to Play the Bodhran
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The Irish Bodhran is a simple frame drum that’s played with a small double ended stick called a tipper and in the hands of an experienced musician it can produce some wonderful rhythms and sounds. If you’re looking to buy a Bodran you can find a lot of great options here. Bodhrans aren’t too expensive […]
