The Melodic Timpani Project

The purpose of the Melodic Timpani Project is to promote the use of the timpani as a melodic instrument.

The mechanics of timpani pedals have improved greatly over the years, and we now have the opportunity to use the timpani voice in a much more active way. However, the repertoire for this style of timpani playing is currently very limited. In an effort to fill this void, I began asking composers to write for this medium. This could be in any context- solos, solos with electronic or acoustic accompaniment, chamber ensembles, large ensembles, etc. The idea is to write or transcribe a wide variety of music that will be heard in the timpani voice, but to disregard the traditional practice of keeping the pitches relatively stationary. Since these pieces make great use of the pedals, my job is to figure out what is physically possible.