Definition

Noun 1. A set of large kettledrums: Tympani (also spelled timpani) are a set of large, bowl-shaped drums with a single drumhead that can be tuned to specific pitches by adjusting the tension. They are a standard part of the modern symphony orchestra and concert band.

Usage

Tympani are played with mallets and are used to provide rhythmic foundation, dramatic accents, and melodic bass lines in orchestral and ensemble music.

Examples

• The tympani roll created a sense of suspense before the finale.
• The composer wrote a solo passage for the tympani in the third movement.
• A standard set of tympani consists of four drums of different sizes.

Advanced Usage

• As a singular concept: While "tympani" is technically plural (from the Italian ), it is often treated as a singular collective noun when referring to the set of drums as a section or instrument.
  • The tympani is an essential part of the percussion section.

Variants and Related Words

• Timpani: The more common modern spelling, interchangeable with "tympani."
• Timpanist (noun): A musician who plays the timpani.
• Kettledrum: A synonym for a single timpano/tympanum drum.

Synonyms

Kettledrums, timpani, kettle drums.

Notes

The word "tympani" is derived from the Italian plural of timpano, which itself comes from the Latin tympanum, meaning "drum" or "kettledrum."

Noun

1. a large hemispherical brass or copper percussion instrument with a drumhead that can be tuned by adjusting the tension on it