Percussion musical instrument set

Types of percussion musical instrument sets

The term percussion musical instrument set refers to a collection of different musical instruments. It usually contains basic instruments that can be used to make music. This is especially true for people who are just starting to learn how to play percussion instruments.

There are many types of percussion musical instrument sets. They include the following:

• Congas and bongos: These are two different kinds of drums that are often used in African and Latin music. A conga drum is tall and cylindrical, while a bongo drum is smaller and comes in a pair of different sizes. Both drums are played with the hands. They are present in almost all percussion instrument sets for adults.
• Cajon: It is a box-shaped percussion drum that one sits on to play. It is also used in Afro-Peruvian music. The instrument has different drums and snare wires of varying sizes that produce different sounds.
• Steel tongue drum: The percussion instrument is also called a tank drum or singing drum. It is made of steel and has various tones that produce melodic sounds when struck with mallet sticks. The instrument is popular in meditative and relaxing music.
• Shaken percussion: These are instruments that are shaken to produce sound. They include maracas, tambourine, and rain stick. They are also included in a percussion instrument set for kids to help them learn the importance of rhythm in music.
• Samba percussion: Samba music is a popular genre in Brazil. Samba percussion instruments are used to create the distinct beats of samba music. They include agogo bells, cuica, pandeiro, surdo, and tamborim.
• Orchestral percussion: These are musical instruments that are played in an orchestra. They are divided into two main categories, which are unpitched and pitched instruments. The unpitched instruments include bass drum, cymbals, snare drum, and gong. The pitched instruments are timpani, marimba, celesta, vibraphone, and xylophone.

Scenarios of percussion musical instrument sets

There are many instances when a percussion musical instrument set comes in handy. They include the following;

• Music education

  A percussion musical instrument set is a great tool for music education. It provides students with different instruments that they can use to learn rhythm, coordination, and basic playing techniques. With this set, students can play instruments like drums, cymbals, tambourines, and shakers. These tools help students understand the role of percussion in music. It also helps them develop fundamental skills that will act as a foundation for other musical instruments.

• Beginner musicians

  A percussion musical instrument set is perfect for beginner musicians who want to explore the world of percussion. The combination of different instruments gives learners an opportunity to try out different sounds and playing techniques. This also helps them discover the instrument they are most interested in. Additionally, the set is affordable and provides all the necessary tools to start playing percussion instruments.

• Traveling musicians

  A percussion musical instrument set is compact and portable, making it easy to travel with. This is because drummers on the move can carry the set in a backpack or small suitcase. Even though the set is small, it still contains essential instruments like a mini drum, snare, cymbals, tambourine, and shaker. This allows musicians to perform or practice anywhere, whether at gigs, rehearsals, or even in a hotel room.

• Music therapy

  Music therapists use percussion musical instrument sets during music therapy sessions. The set provides a safe and supportive environment for the clients to express themselves through music. Also, playing percussion instruments is an engaging and accessible way for clients to communicate their feelings. In addition, the set helps improve motor skills, coordination, and sensory awareness.

• Family entertainment

  A percussion musical instrument set is an excellent addition to family entertainment. The set has various fun and easy-to-use instruments, which are great for family members of all ages. Everyone can take a whack at the drums, play the tambourine, or shake the maracas. It encourages people to come together to make music, which is a great bonding experience. This is because music is a universal language.

How to Choose a percussion musical instrument set

When choosing a percussion musical instrument set, there are a number of things one should consider to ensure that one selects the most appropriate set for their needs and preferences. Here are some of them:

• Skill level

  It is important to choose the right set according to an individual's skill level. Beginners usually require sets that are easy to use and contain basic instruments. On the other hand, experienced players require more advanced sets with a wide range of instruments.

• Purpose

  It is also important to consider the purpose of the instrument set. For instance, if one is buying the set for educational purposes, look for a set that contains the basic instruments required for learning. If one is buying the set for professional performance, get a set with a wide range of instruments that can be used in different genres of music.

• Quality

  Even though quality percussion sets go at a higher price, they are worth the investment. Therefore, look for a set that is made of high-quality materials and has good craftsmanship. This will ensure the instruments have good sound and are durable.

• Portability

  Consider the portability of the percussion musical instrument set. If one needs to travel in order to perform or attend classes, look for a set that is lightweight and easy to carry.

• Budget

  As mentioned earlier, quality instrument sets are expensive. However, they are more economical than buying individual instruments. Therefore, while considering the budget, focus on finding a set that is within the set price range and has all the essential instruments.

Functions, Features, and Design of Percussion Musical Instrument Sets(Combined)

Features and design elements of percussion musical instrument sets can differ greatly based on the type of set and the instruments included. Here are some broad features and design elements that can be found in different percussion musical instrument sets:

• Materials

  Typically, wooden and metal materials are used to construct percussion musical instruments. For instance, the shells of the drums are made from wood, while the drumhead is made from animal skin or synthetic material. Likewise, the majority of cymbals are made of metal alloys.

• Sound-producing Elements

  The most important feature of percussion instruments is the drumhead and striking stick. The size and tension of the drumhead determine the pitch of the sound produced. Drums and shakers come in various sizes and are played with sticks of various sizes. The striking surface of a drum can be played with a drumstick, mallet, or hand. Some instruments, like the tambourine, have jingles that produce a sound without being struck.

• Adjustability

  Some percussion instruments, such as congas, can be customized to fit the player's preferences by adjusting the tension of the drumhead with a tuning key. Tuning brackets and rims are used to ensure that the drumhead is at the appropriate tension and fits snugly on the drum.

• Portability and Storage

  Cases and covers protect percussion instruments from damage and dirt. Stacking and folding designs make percussion instruments more portable. For example, a drum set may include a folding drum throne and a stackable snare drum with a detachable drumhead to make it easier to transport. Compact designs make it easier to transport smaller instruments, such as a cajón or djembe, which can be used in a portable percussion set for kids.

• Additional Accessories

  Extra accessories often enhance the playability and sound of percussion instruments. For example, a drum set may include a drum key, tuning key, and metronome. Stands hold instruments in place, such as the hi-hat stand for the cymbal. Shakers may have adjustable fillings to change the sound. Some instruments, like the hang drum, have protective cases to prevent damage during transport.

Q&A

Q1: What is the role of a percussion instrument in a music band?

A1: A percussion instrument plays a vital role in music by providing the rhythm, keeping the tempo, and adding groove to the music. It is the foundation upon which the other instruments build. The sound of a percussion instrument can vary from simple beats to complex patterns.

Q2: What is a good example of a percussion instrument?

A2: There are many good examples of percussion musical instruments, such as drums, tambourine, cymbals, shaker, conga, cowbell, and more.

Q3: What is the difference between a set of drums and a percussion instrument?

A3: A drum set is a subset of percussion instruments that includes various drums and cymbals arranged for a solo performer, usually a drummer. While all drum sets are percussion instruments, not all percussion instruments are drum sets. Drums are typically played with sticks, pedals, or mallets, whereas other percussion instruments may be played with hands or be struck with beaters of different kinds.

Q4: Can someone turn a percussion instrument into a drum set?

A4: Yes, one can turn a percussion instrument into a drum set. Some people have mini percussion sets that can be played as drums. These mini sets feature a snare, bass, cymbals, and toms. They are ideal for kids or space-conscious drummers. The combo sets are also great because they offer different drums and cymbals, which can be used to create a full drum set. Essentially, one can find various percussion instruments that can be played as drums.