Gabriela Sanchez- May 2015 [email protected] PERCUSSION INSTRUMENTS I am including two of the main percussion instruments in classical music: snare drum and marimba. All students will start playing these instruments as a foundation for technique. I have also added general problems on the drum set. Snare drum (Sometimes also applies for two mallet technique in marimba or xylophone.) Common problems:   The 2nd arm joint is not mapped, so the arms are always close to the torso. As a consequence, percussionists often play with ulnar deviation. There is pressure in the thumb and index finger from holding the stick. Marimba – Stevens technique Photo: Gina Snooks  Mis-mapping: There is just one movement for playing with two mallets in each hand and it happens at the wrist. - Truth: There are LOTS of movements happening in the fingers and thumb, plus pronation and supination. Of course, the whole arm moves! Common problems:    The distance between the marimba and the torso: There is no need to stand close to the instrument, if we do not allow space for the arms to move there is not humeroscapular rhythm. Usually 2nd arm joint in not mapped: It is important to lead the horizontal movement of the arms with the humerus. That allows awareness in this joint. Thumb orientation: There is concentration (tension) in the thumb/index mallet. Drum set Common problems:    Pressure in the grip of the sticks/ulnar deviation, especially in the left arm. Not balanced in sitting / lack of humeroscapular rhythm. Tension in the jaw and in facial muscles.