Teaching percussionists can be a unique challenge, especially for music educators who aren't as familiar with the percussion family of instruments. Percussion involves a wide variety of techniques and instruments, from snare drum and cymbals to mallets and auxiliary instruments. Understanding each of the instruments can be daunting, for even the most experienced educators. For music teachers looking to effectively teach beginning percussionists, the right resources, tools, and equipment are crucial to getting students off to a great start.
Here are some essential resources and tools that can help you guide your young percussionists on their musical journey.
Recommended Classroom Texts for Beginning Percussionists
To ensure your percussion students are developing proper technique and musicianship, it's essential to use quality method books designed specifically for percussion. Here are a few of the top recommended texts for beginner percussionists:
Alfred's Drum Method Book 1
This book is a staple in percussion education. Written by Sandy Feldstein and Dave Black, it provides a comprehensive introduction to snare drum technique, with clear explanations and exercises. It's perfect for beginners who are learning to read music and develop coordination on the drum. The step-by-step progression ensures students build a solid foundation in rhythm, note reading, and drumming basics.
Ney Rosauro's Beginning Exercises and Studies for Two Mallets
Mallet instruments are just as crucial as snare drums for beginning percussionists. Ney Rosauro's book offers excellent introductory exercises for two-mallet playing, which is key for developing the technique needed for xylophone, marimba, and vibraphone. The exercises focus on proper stroke technique, reading melodies, and building the hand-eye coordination needed for mallet percussion.
Essential Elements Book 1 for Band Percussion
For teachers leading full band programs, this book is a great choice. It's designed for use in a band setting and covers not only snare drum and mallet percussion but also introduces timpani and auxiliary percussion. Essential Elements provides a well-rounded curriculum that gives beginning percussionists the basic skills they need while also integrating them into the band's overall sound.
The Right Tools for Success: Choosing Equipment
To get the most out of the method books, students need the right tools. Many beginning percussionists start with rented instruments, but over time, purchasing a complete percussion kit can be a more cost-effective and long-term solution. The Pearl PK910C Percussion Kit is an outstanding option for beginners. Here's why:
Mallet Instrument:
The Pearl kit includes a bell kit (a small, portable xylophone) that's perfect for practicing mallet exercises like those in Ney Rosauro's book. Drum Pad: A snare drum practice pad is also included, allowing students to work on their snare drum technique without the full volume of a real drum, making it ideal for home practice.
Rolling Case: The kit comes with a sturdy rolling case, making it easy for students to transport both their mallet instrument and practice pad to and from school. This ensures they have everything they need for practice sessions, lessons, and performances.
Investing in a kit like the Pearl PK910C saves students from years of rental fees without ownership, allowing them to build a solid foundation with their own equipment from the start.
Where to Buy: Steve Weiss Music
When it comes to purchasing both method books and quality percussion equipment, Steve Weiss Music is a trusted resource for music teachers and students alike. They offer an extensive selection of percussion method books, including Alfred's Drum Method, Ney Rosauro's studies, and Essential Elements for Band Percussion. You'll also find the Pearl PK910C Percussion Kit, as well as other affordable and high-quality instruments and accessories.
Conclusion
For music teachers unfamiliar with percussion, having the right resources and tools can make all the difference. By using proven method books and investing in quality equipment like the Pearl PK910C Percussion Kit, you can give your beginning percussionists the best chance to succeed. And with Steve Weiss Music offering a wide range of both texts and instruments, it's never been easier to find what you need to support your students on their musical journey.