Music Practice Commons^™

The History Of The Marimba, Daniel Rager

Dan Rager

The author presents an international and historical history of one of the earliest melodic percussion instruments made by man. His research suggests the instrument was widespread throughout Asia and Africa, although many other regions claim it to have originated in their country. Known by many names and created from an endless array of materials, this paper reflects the marimbas evolution from the fourteenth century to present day. The writer’s research encompasses the marimbas social roles, musical functions, timbres and styles across many countries as well as its evolution into the twenty-first century.

"Chiaroscuro" And The Quest For Optimal Resonance, Adam Kirkpatrick

Faculty and Research Publications

The author discusses "chiaroscuro," which refers to the balance of brilliance and warmth in the timbre of the singing voice. He offers exercises and approaches to help singers discover and foster optimal resonance in their voices. Resonance is explained, techniques for recognizing optimal "chiaroscuro" are shared, and methods of digital palpitation of the buccal and laryngeal regions to tune the resonance tract are detailed.

The History Of The Marimba, Daniel Rager

Music Faculty Publications

The author presents an international and historical history of one of the earliest melodic percussion instruments made by man. His research suggests the instrument was widespread throughout Asia and Africa, although many other regions claim it to have originated in their country.

Known by many names and created from an endless array of materials, this paper reflects the marimbas evolution from the fourteenth century to present day. The writer’s research encompasses the marimbas social roles, musical functions, timbres and styles across many countries as well as its evolution into the twenty-first century.