Listen to a symphony orchestra playing at full volume. Add just one percussionist playing one note on the triangle and hear the sparkling tone shimmer pleasantly over 70+ musicians. Be careful with that power!
There’s not much that you can do to make a triangle sound better…you can’t change the head, put on better snares, etc... You must invest in a quality instrument. One of the favorites in my collection is the 6” Super-Overtone from Grover Pro Percussion (http://www.groverpro.com/). The instrument is rich in harmonics with a good amount of sustain and a tone that is appropriate in a variety of settings.
- Invest in at least three different sizes of triangle beaters. Each size excites different harmonics thus affecting the tone.
- Experiment with striking various areas on the triangle for different timbres.
My general striking area is the side without the opening. I play about a third of the way down from the top corner with the beater at app. 45 degrees.
This area gives a less definite pitch with lots of harmonics and blends well with the definite pitched instruments being played.- Always suspend the triangle with TWO separate loops (for safety) of thin string, plastic ties, or fishing line. NEVER use wire or heavy cord that will either buzz or significantly inhibit vibrations. Keep the loops short so that the triangle cannot spin after striking.
No comments:
Post a Comment