Lessons for Percussion

Percussion plays a crucial role in a marching band or ensemble, acting as the backbone that holds the music together. Its primary function is to keep time and maintain the rhythm, while also adding depth and texture to the overall sound.

Percussion is essential to a wide range of music genres, from the intricate timpani rolls in classical music to the pulsating drum beats in rock and pop. In jazz, the intricate cymbal patterns provide a rhythmic framework for improvisation, while in Latin music, various percussive instruments like bongos and congas create the iconic beats that define the genre.

Common Percussion Instruments

Each percussion instrument possesses a unique sonic signature and plays a unique role in music.

• Snare Drum: Known for its sharp, staccato sound, the snare drum is a key component in a drum set and marching bands.
• Bass Drum: The largest drum in a set, the bass drum creates the low-end thump that is the heartbeat of most music.
• Timpani: Often used in orchestras, timpani or kettle drums provide a deep, resonating sound.
• Cymbals: These metallic disks produce a sharp, ringing sound when struck or scraped with drumsticks.
• Congas: Tall, narrow drums that are played with the hands, congas are essential to Latin music.
• Bongos: Smaller than congas and played in pairs, bongos add high-pitched rhythmic accents.
• Tambourine: This small frame drum with attached jingles is often used in folk, pop, and rock music.
• Marimba: A mellow-sounding keyboard percussion instrument that is similar to a xylophone but larger and with resonators.
• Xylophone: A pitched percussion instrument consisting of wooden bars struck by mallets.
• Triangle: Despite its simplicity, this small metal percussion instrument is used in various types of music for its clear, high-pitched ringing sound.

Learn Percussion at Fort Bend Music Center

Music lessons should be enjoyable, not a chore! Our students not only have the opportunity to play their favorite music in class, but also practice at home, perform in recitals and shows, and collaborate with their fellow musicians in various venues. Get in touch with our staff today to book your next lesson!