Best
Xylophone
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Overall: Suitable for most styles of music from orchestral works through to wind bands and brass bands
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Best Feature: Exclusive Yamaha tuning method ensures true pitch and full sound
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Tubular Bells
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Overall: Perfectly suited for large symphonic works and Brass tubes with a clear lacquer coating,
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Best Feature: Boasts a new innovative hanger unit and suspension system, suited for large symphonic works
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Marimba
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Overall: The durable frame's lower crossbar support maintains stability and, therefore, playability
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Best Feature: Compact size fits well in rehearsal setting or where space/storage is limited
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TedScore™: 9/10
Imagine your life as a grand symphony, and I’m here to introduce you to its most vibrant section: the Percussion Instruments List! These instruments have the power to shape the entire mood of a tune, as they are the heartbeats of any musical ensemble.
From the powerful bass drum boom to the playful jingle of a triangle, these instruments embody diversity and excitement in music. Together, we’ll discover how each unique piece contributes to the pulsating lifeblood of rhythm.
And what’s a catchy beat without a bit of fun to learn about it? Come along with me, and let’s explore this enchanting array of instruments to make your feet tap and your heart race with excitement. Get ready for a toe-tapping good read!
Classification of Percussion Instruments
Percussion instruments are typically divided into two groups: membranophones and idiophones.
Membranophones
Membranophones are percussion instruments that make a sound when a stretched membrane is struck with drumsticks. The membrane can be made of animal skin or synthetic material.
The most famous membranophone is the drum, which comes in various shapes and sizes and can be played with hands or sticks. Other examples of membranophones include:
- Timpani
- Bongos
- Congas
- Djembe
- Taiko drums
Idiophones
Idiophone percussion instruments create sound by vibrating the entire instrument, and they are made of solid materials that vibrate when struck. The cymbal, a well-known idiophone, is metal and comes in different sizes and shapes.
Other examples of idiophones include:
- Tambourine
- Xylophone
- Maracas
- Cowbell
- Triangle
Percussion Instruments in the Orchestra
One of the most critical sections of the orchestra is the percussion section, which provides the beat and rhythm that keeps the music moving and adds interest and variety to the sound. Let’s look at some of the percussion instruments commonly used in the orchestra.
Pitched and Unpitched Percussion Instruments
Percussion instruments can be broadly classified into two categories: pitched and unpitched.
Pitched percussion instruments produce musical notes of one or more pitches, while unpitched percussion instruments produce sounds of indeterminate pitch. In this section, we’ll look at some of the most popular examples.
Percussion Instruments in Popular Music
When it comes to popular music, percussion instruments play a crucial role in creating the rhythm and groove of a song. This section will explore some of the most popular percussion instruments in popular music.
Top 5 Tuned Percussion Instruments
Yamaha YX35G Xylophone
The Yamaha YX35G Xylophone is a high-quality, 3.5-octave instrument designed for beginners and experienced players. It features precision-tuned Padauk wood bars that deliver a rich, resonant tone, while the sturdy frame ensures stability during performances.
With its exceptional craftsmanship and sound, the Yamaha YX35G Xylophone is an excellent choice for musicians in educational settings, orchestras, or solo performances.
Yamaha YX35G Xylophone
FEATURES: Exclusive Yamaha tuning method ensures true pitch and full sound
OTHER INFO: Graduated bars produce a full tone and projection
- Height adjustable frame provides extra comfort
- The frame is compact which is great for a travelling musician
- Suitable for most musical styles from orchestral works through to wind bands and brass bands
- Smaller bars create a lesser quality tone and dynamic range
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha YG250D Glockenspiel
The Yamaha YG250D Glockenspiel is a well-crafted 2.5-octave instrument with a bright, clear sound. It features high-quality steel bars that are precisely tuned, ensuring accurate pitch and excellent tone production.
The YG250D’s compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for musicians who need a portable instrument for performances, rehearsals, or educational settings.
Yamaha YG250D Glockenspiel
FEATURES: High-carbon steel materials treated with a unique tempering process create a pure, bright tone
OTHER INFO: Nodal point support string with single pin bar mounting increase sustain and maximize resonance
- Includes rectangular case and me-101 mallet
- Full F57-C88 range satisfies more repertoire requirements
- Stand not included
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha YM1430 Marimba
The Yamaha YM1430 Marimba is a professional-grade, 4.3-octave instrument with exceptional sound quality and playing experience. It features premium Honduran Rosewood bars that are carefully selected and aged to ensure rich, warm tones and excellent resonance.
The YM1430’s robust frame and height-adjustable resonators provide optimal sound projection and stability, making it an ideal choice for advanced players in solo, ensemble, or orchestral settings.
Yamaha YM1430 Marimba, 4.3 Octaves
FEATURES: Padauk wood bars provide natural wood sound and feel
OTHER INFO: Graduated bars produce a full tone and projection throughout the instrument's range
- Compact size fits well in rehearsal setting or where space/storage is limited
- Height adjustable frame allows the most comfortable playing position for all players
- Sound quality is not as good as Honduras rosewood bars
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha YCH6018 Tubular Bells
The Yamaha YCH6018 Tubular Bells are a set of 18 precision-crafted chimes that produce a clear, pure, and sustained tone.
Made from high-quality aluminum alloy, these bells are carefully tuned to ensure accurate pitch and a rich, resonant sound. The YCH6018 Tubular Bells are mounted on a sturdy, height-adjustable frame, making them suitable for various musical settings, from orchestras to churches and educational institutions.
Yamaha YCH6018 Tubular Bells
FEATURES: Boasts a new innovative hanger unit and suspension system
OTHER INFO: Brass tubes with a clear lacquer coating
- Perfectly suited for large symphonic works
- Redesigned damper box and rod clamp system
- Mallets not included
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
WHD Complete Timpani
The WHD Complete Timpani set is a high-quality, professional-grade collection of kettledrums for orchestral and symphonic performances. This set includes four timpani (20″, 23″, 26″, and 29″) crafted from premium copper bowls and fitted with calfskin heads, ensuring a rich, warm, and authentic sound.
WHD Complete Timpani Drum Set
FEATURES: Premium bundle containing 23", 26", 29" and 32" Orchestral Timpani
OTHER INFO: Lightweight and rugged fibreglass bowls
- Provide a cost-effective alternative to copper bowled timpani without compromising on quality
- Also includes protective covers and pairs of Timpani mallets
- Mallets not included
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Percussion Instruments List
Summary
I’ve had a great time discussing percussion instruments with you. They’re like the seasoning in the musical kitchen, adding remarkable versatility and endless variety to the oldest and largest family in the music world.
I’ve discovered instruments from around the world, used in various genres—from jazz and samba to classical and rock—showing their adaptability and universal appeal. It’s fascinating how each culture infuses its percussion with local flair.
It’s been a joy exploring these rhythmic wonders, as they truly bring a delightful beat to the tapestry of music. Whether you shake a tambourine or beat a drum, the percussion family invites everyone to share in the rhythm.
Wait, there’s more!!!
Get ready to rock out with the ultimate guide to the top drum set brands in the world – your one-stop shop for all things percussion!
Go here to find out more: 10 Best Drum Set Brands – The Ultimate Guide
didnt know tubular bells could be so interesting. might sample some in my next track. nice write up
Sam Jowett
I’ve always been fascinated by the range of sounds mallet instruments like marimbas and xylophones can produce. It’s pretty cool to see them get some limelight. The Yamaha models listed are top-notch. Have played on a few of them and they’re a delight.
Absolutely agree, XyloPhil. The depth and versatility of these instruments are unmatched. Adds a whole new layer to any composition.
hey, got a question about the drum kit section. how do you think electronic drum sets fit into popular music compared to traditional ones? just curious cause i got one recently and been thinking about this a lot.
It’s truly refreshing to see such a comprehensive outline dedicated to percussion instruments, Sam . Your inclusion of both traditional orchestral pieces and more modern, popular instruments offers a broad perspective that’s invaluable for educators. The classification segment could serve as an excellent basis for lesson planning, while the detailed list of tuned percussion instruments, like the Yamaha YX35G Xylophone, provides concrete examples for students. Have you considered adding more resources or suggested activities for each instrument type to further aid educators in integrating these into their teachings?