Frequently asked questions
Q: Can our xylophones
and metallophones be mended?
A: yes, usually. It helps
if you know the make and model. All of the Spare parts can be bought
from the suppliers listed in our weblinks, with instructions if
necessary. Take care to store these instruments away from direct
heat.
Q: What is the difference
between a xylophone, a glockenspiel and a metallophone?
A: The bars on a xylophone are
made of wood (Gr. 'xylos'= wood). The bars on metllophones are made
of metal. A glockenspiel is just one kind of metallophone - usually
has very shiny bars and 2 rows of notes.
Q: Can untuned classroom
percussion instruments be mended?
A:It is only worth it if
they cost a lot of money to begin with. Classroom percussion has
a limited life like any other equipment. It may be that some very
old instruments could present a health and safety risk if in poor
condition. The instruments available now are usually very durable.
See weblinks for suppliers.
Q: What does 'Timbre' mean?
A: Timbre is the word that describes the character of
a sound - for instance the way a triangle (metal) has a sound that
rings on, and a Woodblock a short, sharp sound.
Q: What does 'Pentatonic'
mean?
A: Pentatonic refers to
a special kind of 5 note musical scale which has its origins in
folk musics from all around the world. It is useful in classroom
music because it contains a set of notes which all blend together
well. Pupils can play different notes at the same time without fearing
that any will sound 'wrong'. A pentatonic scale can be made out
of any 8 note scale any removing the 4th and 7th
steps. The two most useful versions for class use are CDE GA - good
if using mainly tuned percussion and GAB DE - useful if using recorders
and/or guitars.
Q: What is the difference
between Beat and Rhythm?
A: A beat is usually steady
- it continues at the speed at which it started. You could describe
it as like a ticking clock or steady footsteps.' Pulse ' describes
the same thing.
A rhythm is a combination of long and short sounds, often
forming a pattern. As most children's music is based on songs, a
good way to describe it is as following the pattern of the words.
Syllables are a good link once the children have learned about them.
Q: What should I have in
my listening collection?
A: The teaching resources section
of this website includes a whole section devoted to listening materials.
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