what is a percusion insrument

Percussion instruments are played by being struck, shaken, rubbed or scraped. They are perhaps the oldest form of musical instruments. Some percussion instruments play not only rhythm, but also melody and harmony.

Examples of percussion instruments include drums, cymbals, xylophones, marimbas, gongs, and tambourines.

To find out more about percussion instruments, you can explore various sources such as:

1. Internet search engines: Use search engines like Google or Bing and type in "percussion instruments" to find comprehensive information. This will give you access to articles, videos, and images that can help you better understand different types of percussion instruments and how they are played.

2. Music education websites: Many websites dedicated to music education provide resources specifically tailored to learning about percussion instruments. They often offer detailed descriptions, history, and examples of different percussion instruments.

3. Musical instrument stores: Visit a local music store or explore online music retailers to see and potentially try out different percussion instruments. The staff at these stores can often provide firsthand knowledge and guidance on various percussion instruments.

4. Music theory books/instructional guides: Look for books or instructional guides focused on music theory, which will often include sections about percussion instruments. These resources typically give a comprehensive understanding of the different types of percussion instruments and their unique characteristics.

By utilizing these sources, you can gather a wealth of information about percussion instruments, helping you develop a deeper understanding of their role in music.

Here are some common types of percussion instruments:

1. Drums: These include various types such as the bass drum, snare drum, tom-toms, and timpani. They are typically played by striking them with sticks, mallets, or hands.

2. Cymbals: These are metal plates that produce a shimmering sound when struck together. They can be played individually or in pairs.

3. Tambourine: This is a handheld instrument with metal jingles attached to the perimeter. It is played by shaking or striking it with the hand.

4. Maracas: These are percussion shakers made of hollow shells filled with beads or seeds. They are typically held in both hands and shaken to produce a rhythmic sound.

5. Xylophone: This is a pitched percussion instrument consisting of wooden bars of different lengths. The bars are struck with mallets to produce specific tones.

6. Triangle: This is a metal instrument shaped like a triangle. It is played by striking it with a metal beater to produce a high-pitched ringing sound.

7. Bongos: These are a pair of small drums connected together. They are played by striking them with the hands or fingers.

8. Djembe: This is a West African drum with a goblet-shaped body and a goatskin head. It is played with the hands, and its pitch can be altered by applying pressure to the drumhead.

These are just a few examples of percussion instruments, but there are many more, each with its own unique sound and playing technique.