Understanding Mallet Shafts And Heads

Ramu Thiruyanam, Resident Writer for the Percussion Column

Mallet choice seems to be of great controversy amongst many percussionists, and there is fair reason for that to be the case, considering that there is a very wide selection of models and makes to choose from currently out there in the market.

Making the right choice can be a daunting task for many, especially those on a budget or for the beginning mallet percussionist.

Mallets are key to any percussionist, and having the right set of mallets for the right situation would make ones playing so much easier and would not be the cause for the case of the tool hindering the artist.

When discussing this subject I always think, “choose your sound – then you implement”.

I suggest starting with your imagination and envision how you truly want your ensemble to sound. When doing so, think color of the sound – not just hard & soft.

I suggest that you arrange with implement choices in mind. Try to avoid “default choices” and be sure that the sound you would hope for at any given moment is represented.

Of course, please note that preferences for particular makes and models of mallets are highly subjective.

The challenges and opportunities are different with an ensemble vs. solo playing. What works great for an excerpt as an individual may not work as well for a full ensemble. One’s selection of mallets plays a crucial role in the sound a player produces on any mallet instrument.

With that thought in mind, this article will provide an overview of the different types of mallets that can be used with different instruments: namely the Xylophone, Vibraphone, Marimba and Glockenspiel.

The information presented here is important to all percussionists, but less-experienced players, and music educators, will benefit greatly from this article.

Note: Being a Vic Firth endorser, I will be citing examples of the different mallet heads and choices by using Vic Firth mallets as an example.

Of course, you are free to experiment with different brands and to try them out for yourself as in the end, it is a matter of preference so do not assume that there is only one choice for any given situation.

This article is not designed to name the “best” mallet for any given circumstance but simply to illuminate the options available to players.

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