Happy Tuesday, everyone!
Chordophones aren't really split into any categories. They don't need to be.
Chordophones, percussion instruments or not, are stringed instruments, bowed, plucked or struck. Since we're drummers and we hit things, we prefer them struck.
Percussionists don't generally have to play these instruments, because they're either very similar to or are a piano. Or dulcimer, which is kinda weird and usually pretty rare.
Hammered dulcimer is played with two "sticks", that are shaped kind of a like a shepherd's crook. Each note resonates on two strings, and notes can be played on both sides of the bridge in the middle. If you're interested, youtube it. I'm short on time and studying for a test, so I can't search around for a good hammered dulcimer video.
But, keep in mind, the hammered dulcimer isn't the same as the dulcimer. Dulcimers have frets and are played like a steel, lap guitar. They're sometimes called the "mountain dulcimer." I've had the pleasure of playing both of them.
Pianos are pretty common. I suppose you know what a piano is.
Harpsichords are similar to pianos but instead of the hammer striking the string(s), like a piano, the strings are plucked, which gives it that halfway in between piano and guitar sound.
The celesta is another similar instrument, but its hammers strike metal bars, usually steel, that hang over resonators, producing a sound very similar to bells or a high vibraphone. It's usually more of an effect instrument than a solo instrument, and it's most famous for its part in "The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies" in Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker Suite."
That's really all I've got in terms of chordophones.
I'm studying for a Jazz Records test tomorrow, so I'll show you some awesome bits from that class. Perhaps a top three or five.
I like Buddy Rich a lot.
But he's much more a of a big band guy than a quintet guy. Especially with Thelonious, Dizzy, and Charlie Parker, he sounds a little out of place. Sorry Buddy.
This is what happens when you leave timpani in the studio. Max Roach adds one to his drums.
My family is coming on Friday! I'm excited.
M
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