Percussion Pedagogy

In Percussion Pedagogy, author Michael Udow offers a practical guide for students interested in teaching percussion as well as improving their technique. Udow first introduces the bouncing ball system, a technical analogy that teaches students to resist the effects of inertia. Throughout the book, the bouncing ball analogy develops into a core performance principle based on integrated motions resulting in refined tone quality and meaningful musicianship.
The book applies this principle to several instruments including snare drum, timpani, marimba, vibraphone, multiple-percussion, tambourine and triangle, bass drum, cymbals, tam-tams, and a variety of Western
concert and world percussion repertoire. In particular, Udow addresses the importance of coupling stroke types with stickings to set the foundation for precise rhythmic playing and expressive musicality. Chapters also focus on integrated rhythms, breath, and pulsed rhythms, anatomy and physiological health, psychological health, purposeful listening, and the importance of singing when practicing. Offering solutions to common performance problems, the book’s many examples serve as a paradigm for
future problem solving. A comprehensive companion website complements Udow’s teachings with a wealth of video tutorials and listening examples.

Author Biography

Michael Udow has served as Principal Percussionist (1968-2009) in The Santa Fe Opera and as Professor of Music at the University of Michigan (1982-2011). He was the 2014-15 Composer-in-Residence with the Colorado Chamber Orchestra.