diminished Archives

Double Diminished Double Stops, page 1 — **Double Diminished Double Stops**
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Double Diminished Double Stops, page 2 — *…or click here to download in PDF format.*

This exercise for two-mallet keyboard percussion utilizes double stops with a diminished 7th chord (also known as double diminished). Starting with A, the pattern cycles through all 12 keys, going up by a half step each time.

The goal of this exercise is to build fluidity of movement with double stops around the keyboard. You start by playing three repetitions on each interval, then two, then one. These patterns cycle through 18/8, 12/8, and 6/8 time signatures, respectively.

With all double stops, be careful to strike both notes together. As you get faster, I would recommend striking the upper manual bars on the edge, instead of the center. Strive for accuracy and consistent sound. Stay relaxed, and let the stroke come from the wrists.

As you get more comfortable with this exercise, it can be a good endurance builder. Don’t slow down on the 6/8 measures! Keep a steady pulse throughout the exercise. A metronome will be invaluable for keeping tempo. For added endurance, repeat several times.

Have fun with this one!

*Click on the image to enlarge or click here to download in PDF format.*

This three-drum timpani exercise utilizes a common situation, in which you must quickly play all three drums. To avoid awkward crossover situations and to play the passage with a consistent sticking pattern, most timpanists choose to play a double split among the two drums. (Tenor drummers call these “sweeps.”)

This exercise works both the right hand and the left hand. The accents add an additional challenge. Make sure the accents are distinct, but never overplayed and harsh.

The notes in the exercise are based on an A diminished triad. Any other grouping of notes could certainly work for practicing the technical skills, but tuning the written notes is important.

As always, start slowly until you have the exercise sounding great. Then gradually build speed.

Tag: diminished

2-Mallet Keyboard Exercise: Double Diminished Double Stops

Timpani Exercise: Triplet Splits