Striking movements: A survey of motion analysis of percussionists

Abstract

Like all music performance, percussion playing requires high control over timing and sound properties. Specific to percussionists, however, is the need to adjust the movement to different instruments with varying physical properties and tactile feedback to the player. Furthermore, the well defined note onsets and short interaction times between player and instrument do not allow for much adjustment once a stroke is initiated. The paper surveys research that shows a close relationship between movement and sound production, and how playing conditions such as tempo and the rebound after impact affect the movements. Furthermore, I discuss differences in movement organization, and visual information from striking movements. © 2011 The Acoustical Society of Japan.