User Manual

DR. MICHAEL VARNER 3
Yamaha Corporation of America • Band & Orchestral Division
3445 East Paris Ave., SE • P.O. Box 899 • Grand Rapids, MI 49518-0899
www.yamahapercussion.com
Dr. Michael Varner
Exercise #4 helps the student approach passages that move both up and down. When changing directions, increase the roll speed slightly to facilitate stick-
ing. While no single rule covers every situation, these basic concepts will allow the student to gain the dexterity necessary for a smooth legato sound.
Ex. 4
Gradually widen the intervals to arpeggios and finally octaves. Observe the path between widely separated notes to make sure the mallets are traveling in a
smooth curved line. Exercise #5 is excellent to test legato roll technique.
Ex. 5
Listen carefully to the roll speed so the double-stops sound smooth and even. If they begin to sound like staccato sixteenth-notes increase the roll speed.
You will also encounter rolls that are not connected. Approach them like a breath mark on a wind instrument by slightly shortening the note’s duration
(Ex. 6). Lift the mallets off the bar to avoid ending with an accent. Untied rolls on the same pitch can be accomplished with a gentle lift of the wrist. If you
encounter a roll that is accented, try slightly increasing the roll speed or raising the mallet height at the beginning of each roll. Be careful not to add unin-
tentional accent or resort to a stroke that causes a marcato abrupt sound.
Ex. 6
The concepts and techniques described here should help you develop a great sounding roll that will apply to a wide range of musical situations. Always
listen carefully and strive to produce a smooth, beautiful, full tone!