Timpani

Definition

This instrument belongs to the percussion family. A drum with skin stretched across a large bowl which was traditionally made of copper, but is more commonly now made of fibreglass.

It is a tuned percussion instrument as it can play a range of notes.

A timpani is struck with timpani sticks or mallets that are designed not to damage the surface of the skin.

Examples

Andy Smith introduces his instruments - the timpani.

See and hear an example of a timpani solo.

Related concepts

• Percussion (N3 & N4 Tech)