kettledrum
Noun: A kettledrum is a large percussion instrument consisting of a hemispherical copper or brass bowl with a drumhead (a stretched membrane) stretched over the top. The pitch of the drum can be changed by adjusting the tension of the drumhead, typically via screws or a pedal mechanism.
The word "kettledrum" refers specifically to this tunable drum. It is often used in orchestral, ceremonial, and military music contexts. * The kettledrum is a standard instrument in a symphony orchestra's percussion section. * The sound of the kettledrum added a dramatic roll to the climax of the piece.
- The percussionist carefully tuned the kettledrum before the concert.
- A set of four kettledrums, also called timpani, is common in a modern orchestra.
- The deep, resonant boom of the kettledrum signaled the beginning of the ceremony.
- "Kettledrummer": A musician who plays the kettledrum.
- The principal kettledrummer has perfect pitch.
- The term is often used in historical or specific contexts, while its more common synonym in modern orchestral language is "timpani."
- Timpani (noun, plural): The more common Italian-derived term for a set of kettledrums. While "kettledrum" can refer to a single instrument, "timpani" always refers to the set.
- The timpani player adjusted the pitch of her drums.
- Timpanist (noun): The preferred term for a kettledrum player in an orchestra.
- Timpani (when referring to the set of drums)
- Timpano (singular form of timpani, rarely used in English)
There are no common idioms that use the specific word "kettledrum." However, the sound it produces is sometimes referenced descriptively. * "A kettledrum roll": Refers to the rapid, successive beats played on the drum, often used to build tension or for dramatic effect. * A long kettledrum roll preceded the king's entrance.
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a large hemispherical brass or copper percussion instrument with a drumhead that can be tuned by adjusting the tension on it
