Welcome to the world of musical instruments! In this 101 guide, we will delve into the fascinating topic of instrumentation. But what exactly do we mean by instrumentation? Simply put, it refers to the use of musical instruments in a piece of music. From the humble piano to the majestic violin, each instrument has its own unique sound and timbre, and when combined, they create a rich and diverse musical landscape. So join us as we explore the fundamentals of musical instruments and discover the magic of instrumentation.
What is Instrumentation?
Definition and Importance
Instrumentation refers to the selection and arrangement of musical instruments in a composition or performance. It involves choosing the right instruments to convey the desired tone, mood, and texture, and placing them in the appropriate locations to create a balanced and effective musical experience.
The importance of instrumentation lies in its ability to shape the overall sound of a piece of music. By carefully selecting and positioning instruments, composers and performers can create a wide range of timbres and textures that can evoke different emotions and atmospheres.
Moreover, instrumentation can also play a crucial role in conveying the cultural and historical context of a piece of music. Different instruments have been associated with different musical traditions and styles, and the choice of instruments can therefore influence the way a piece of music is perceived by listeners.
Overall, the art of instrumentation is a critical aspect of music-making, as it can greatly impact the quality and effectiveness of a musical performance or composition.
Types of Instruments
There are many different types of musical instruments, each with its own unique characteristics and capabilities. Some of the most common types of instruments include:
- String instruments: These instruments produce sound by vibrating strings, which are typically made of metal or nylon. Examples of string instruments include the violin, viola, cello, and double bass.
- Woodwind instruments: These instruments produce sound by blowing air through a reed or other mouthpiece. Examples of woodwind instruments include the flute, clarinet, saxophone, and oboe.
- Brass instruments: These instruments produce sound by buzzing the lips into a mouthpiece, which is usually made of brass. Examples of brass instruments include the trumpet, trombone, and French horn.
- Percussion instruments: These instruments produce sound by being struck, shaken, or scraped. Examples of percussion instruments include drums, cymbals, and maracas.
- Keyboard instruments: These instruments produce sound by pressing keys, which activate a mechanism that produces sound. Examples of keyboard instruments include the piano, organ, and synthesizer.
- Electronic instruments: These instruments produce sound using electronic circuits and devices, such as digital audio workstations (DAWs) and virtual instruments.
Each type of instrument has its own unique sound and capabilities, and understanding the basics of each type can help you choose the right instrument for your needs and preferences.
Acoustic Instruments
Acoustic instruments are musical instruments that produce sound through the vibration of strings, wood, or other materials. They are typically categorized based on the type of material used to create the sound and the method of producing that sound. In this section, we will explore the four main categories of acoustic instruments: string instruments, percussion instruments, woodwind instruments, and brass instruments.
String Instruments
String instruments are acoustic instruments that produce sound through the vibration of strings. The most common string instruments include the violin, viola, cello, and double bass. These instruments are typically made of wood and have a hollow body. The strings are made of various materials, such as steel, nylon, or gut, and are plucked or bowed to produce sound.
Percussion Instruments
Percussion instruments are acoustic instruments that produce sound through the vibration of a membrane or a solid object. The most common percussion instruments include drums, cymbals, and xylophones. These instruments are typically made of wood, metal, or plastic and are played by striking, shaking, or scraping the surface to produce sound.
Woodwind Instruments
Woodwind instruments are acoustic instruments that produce sound through the vibration of a reed or a flute. The most common woodwind instruments include the flute, clarinet, saxophone, and oboe. These instruments are typically made of wood and have a reed or a mouthpiece that vibrates to produce sound.
Brass Instruments
Brass instruments are acoustic instruments that produce sound through the vibration of a metal tube. The most common brass instruments include the trumpet, trombone, French horn, and tuba. These instruments are typically made of brass and have a mouthpiece that vibrates to produce sound. The sound is amplified by the bell, which is typically made of brass or another metal.
Electronic Instruments
Electronic instruments are musical instruments that use electronic circuits, transistors, and other electronic components to produce sound. They have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their versatility and the ability to create a wide range of sounds that were previously only possible with traditional instruments. In this section, we will discuss some of the most common types of electronic instruments.
Synthesizers
A synthesizer is an electronic instrument that generates electric signals that are then converted into sound through amplifiers and speakers. There are two main types of synthesizers: analog and digital. Analog synthesizers use analog circuits to generate sound, while digital synthesizers use digital signal processing techniques to generate sound.
Analog synthesizers typically have a simpler interface and are easier to use than digital synthesizers. They often have knobs and sliders that allow the user to adjust various parameters, such as the frequency and amplitude of the sound. Analog synthesizers can produce a wide range of sounds, from classic electric piano sounds to complex, evolving textures.
Digital synthesizers, on the other hand, have a more complex interface and are often more difficult to use. They typically have a keyboard and a display that shows the various parameters that can be adjusted. Digital synthesizers can produce a wide range of sounds, from realistic instrument sounds to futuristic, otherworldly textures.
Samplers
A sampler is an electronic instrument that uses digital signal processing techniques to record and play back sounds. Samplers can record a wide range of sounds, from instruments to vocals to ambient noise. Once a sound is recorded, it can be edited and manipulated using various effects, such as reverb and delay.
Samplers can be used in a variety of musical genres, from hip-hop to classical music. They are often used to create realistic instrument sounds, such as pianos and strings, but can also be used to create more experimental sounds.
Drum Machines
A drum machine is an electronic instrument that generates electronic drum sounds. They are often used in electronic music, but can also be used in other genres to add a rhythmic element to the music.
Drum machines typically have a series of buttons or pads that correspond to different drum sounds. The user can press the buttons or pads to play different drum sounds in different rhythms. Some drum machines also have the ability to record and play back rhythms, allowing the user to create more complex drum patterns.
Effects Processors
An effects processor is an electronic instrument that uses digital signal processing techniques to alter the sound of an instrument or voice. Effects processors can be used to add a wide range of effects, such as reverb, delay, distortion, and filtering.
Effects processors can be used in a variety of musical genres, from rock to pop to electronic music. They are often used to add a unique sound to an instrument or voice, or to create a specific effect, such as a chorus or flanger.
The Science of Musical Instruments
Acoustics and Sound Production
The study of acoustics and sound production in musical instruments involves understanding the physics of how sound is produced, how it travels through the air, and how it is heard by the human ear. In this section, we will delve into the various aspects of acoustics and sound production in musical instruments.
Sound Waves and Vibrations
All sounds are created by vibrations. When an object vibrates, it sets the surrounding air molecules into motion, creating sound waves. These sound waves travel through the air until they reach the ear, where they vibrate the eardrum and send signals to the brain.
String instruments, such as violins and cellos, produce sound by vibrating strings. The strings are attached to a wooden body, and when the strings are plucked or bowed, they vibrate at a specific frequency, creating a unique sound. The shape and size of the instrument, as well as the material and tension of the strings, all affect the sound produced.
Wind Instruments
Wind instruments, such as trumpets and saxophones, produce sound by vibrating a column of air. When the player blows air into the instrument, they create a column of air that vibrates at a specific frequency, creating a sound. The shape and size of the instrument, as well as the player’s embouchure and breath pressure, all affect the sound produced.
Percussion instruments, such as drums and cymbals, produce sound by vibrating a solid object. When the instrument is struck with a mallet or hand, it vibrates at a specific frequency, creating a sound. The shape and size of the instrument, as well as the material and hardness of the striking surface, all affect the sound produced.
Resonance and Amplification
Resonance is the enhancement of sound waves by a resonant cavity. When a sound wave enters a resonant cavity, it causes the cavity to vibrate at the same frequency, amplifying the sound. This is why a guitar amplifier can make a guitar sound louder.
In conclusion, the science of musical instruments involves understanding the physics of sound production and acoustics. By studying the different types of instruments and their mechanics, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of music.
Materials and Construction Techniques
Musical instruments are constructed using a variety of materials and techniques, each of which contributes to the instrument’s unique sound and performance characteristics. The materials used in instrument construction can be broadly categorized into three types: wood, metal, and plastic.
Wood is a popular choice for many instruments, including violins, cellos, and acoustic guitars. It is a versatile material that is lightweight, strong, and has excellent acoustic properties. Wooden instruments are often constructed using a process called luthiery, which involves shaping and joining the pieces of wood together to form the instrument’s body.
Metal is another commonly used material in instrument construction, particularly for brass and percussion instruments. Brass instruments, such as trumpets and trombones, are typically made from a combination of brass and bronze alloys, which provide the instruments with their distinctive bright and resonant sound. Percussion instruments, such as drums and cymbals, are typically made from metal because of their durability and ability to produce a wide range of tones and overtones.
Plastic is a newer material that has been used in instrument construction since the mid-20th century. It is often used for electric instruments, such as guitars and basses, because of its ability to mimic the sound and feel of wood while being more lightweight and affordable. Plastic instruments are also easier to manufacture and maintain than wooden instruments, making them a popular choice for beginners and hobbyists.
In addition to the materials used, the construction techniques employed in instrument making can also have a significant impact on the instrument’s sound and performance. For example, the shape and size of the instrument’s body can affect the way it resonates and projects sound. The type of finish used on the instrument can also affect its sound, as well as its durability and appearance.
Understanding the materials and construction techniques used in instrument making can help musicians choose the right instrument for their needs and playing style. It can also help musicians appreciate the craftsmanship and skill involved in creating high-quality musical instruments.
Design and Mechanics
Design and mechanics are two critical components of musical instruments. The design of an instrument refers to its physical structure and the materials used to create it. The mechanics of an instrument, on the other hand, refer to the systems and components that produce sound, such as strings, keys, and valves.
In order to understand the design and mechanics of musical instruments, it is essential to have a basic understanding of acoustics and how sound is produced. Musical instruments produce sound by vibrating, and the vibration creates sound waves that travel through the air. The frequency of the vibration determines the pitch of the sound, while the amplitude of the vibration determines the volume or loudness of the sound.
The design of an instrument affects its sound production in several ways. For example, the shape and size of an instrument’s body can affect the resonance of the instrument, which can affect the quality of the sound produced. The material used to make the instrument can also affect its sound production, as different materials have different physical properties that can affect the vibration of the instrument.
The mechanics of an instrument are responsible for producing sound. For example, in a piano, the keys are connected to a mechanism that strikes the strings, causing them to vibrate and produce sound. In a brass instrument like a trumpet, the player buzzes their lips to vibrate the mouthpiece, which in turn vibrates the length of the instrument to produce sound.
Understanding the design and mechanics of musical instruments is crucial for musicians, instrument makers, and engineers. By understanding how instruments work, musicians can make informed decisions about the instruments they choose to play, while instrument makers and engineers can design and build better instruments.
Choosing the Right Instrument
Factors to Consider
When choosing a musical instrument, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Skill level: Your skill level is an important factor to consider when choosing an instrument. Some instruments are more difficult to play than others, and it’s important to choose one that is appropriate for your skill level. If you’re a beginner, you may want to start with a simpler instrument like a recorder or a ukulele. If you’re more advanced, you may want to try something more challenging like a violin or a guitar.
- Physical characteristics: The physical characteristics of the instrument are also important to consider. For example, if you have small hands, you may want to avoid instruments with large keys like the piano. Similarly, if you have a long neck, you may want to avoid instruments that are difficult to reach, like the cello.
- Sound quality: The sound quality of the instrument is also an important factor to consider. Some instruments have a rich, full sound, while others have a more mellow or thin sound. It’s important to choose an instrument that produces the kind of sound you’re looking for.
- Price: The price of the instrument is also an important factor to consider. Some instruments are very expensive, while others are more affordable. It’s important to set a budget and choose an instrument that fits within that budget.
- Portability: If you plan to play your instrument in different locations, portability may be an important factor to consider. Some instruments are very large and difficult to transport, while others are more portable and can be taken on the go.
- Aesthetics: Finally, the aesthetics of the instrument may be an important factor to consider. Some instruments are beautiful to look at, while others may not be as visually appealing. It’s important to choose an instrument that you find visually appealing and that you’ll enjoy playing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Selecting the right musical instrument can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. To ensure a smooth and fulfilling musical journey, it is crucial to avoid certain common mistakes that can lead to frustration and discouragement. In this section, we will discuss some of these common mistakes and provide practical advice on how to avoid them.
- Not considering individual preferences: One of the most common mistakes is choosing an instrument based on popularity or the opinions of others, rather than personal preference. It is essential to listen to your inner voice and select an instrument that resonates with you on a personal level. This will increase the likelihood of practicing and progressing, ultimately leading to a more enjoyable musical experience.
- Underestimating the importance of accessories: Another mistake is neglecting the importance of accessories such as strings, reeds, or sticks. These accessories can significantly impact the instrument’s playability and sound quality. Failing to invest in high-quality accessories can lead to poor tone, increased maintenance, and potential damage to the instrument.
- Overlooking the instrument’s size and weight: For beginners, instruments that are too large or too heavy can be overwhelming, leading to discomfort and discouragement. It is important to consider the size and weight of the instrument, especially for young players or those with physical limitations. Selecting an instrument that is comfortable to hold and play will encourage regular practice and enhance the overall learning experience.
- Not seeking professional advice: Many musicians make the mistake of relying solely on online research or the advice of friends and family when choosing an instrument. While these sources can be helpful, it is crucial to seek the guidance of a professional music teacher or experienced musician. They can provide valuable insights into the instrument’s mechanics, playing techniques, and maintenance requirements, ensuring that you make an informed decision.
- Overlooking the instrument’s versatility: Lastly, some musicians may overlook the importance of an instrument’s versatility. While specialized instruments may have unique tonal qualities, they may not be suitable for various genres or ensemble settings. Considering an instrument’s versatility can help you adapt to different musical styles and opportunities, allowing for a more dynamic and well-rounded musical experience.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase the likelihood of selecting the right musical instrument for your needs and preferences. With the right instrument in hand, you can embark on a rewarding musical journey, filled with growth, creativity, and personal fulfillment.
Advice from Experts
Selecting the perfect instrument for oneself is a crucial step in the journey of a musician. Experts in the field offer several pieces of advice to aspiring musicians to ensure that they make the right choice.
Consider Personal Preferences
Experts advise that musicians should first consider their personal preferences when choosing an instrument. It is important to choose an instrument that the musician is comfortable playing and that aligns with their musical goals.
Try Different Instruments
Experts also suggest that musicians should try different instruments before making a final decision. Trying out different instruments allows musicians to gain a better understanding of their unique features and to determine which one best suits their needs.
Seek Professional Advice
Additionally, seeking professional advice from music teachers or instrument specialists can be extremely helpful in choosing the right instrument. These professionals have a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field and can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
Invest in Quality
Finally, experts advise musicians to invest in a high-quality instrument, as it will have a significant impact on their musical journey. While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper option, investing in a quality instrument will provide a better playing experience and can ultimately lead to greater success as a musician.
Learning to Play an Instrument
Developing Technique
Developing technique is an essential aspect of learning to play a musical instrument. It involves building the physical skills and abilities necessary to play the instrument effectively. This section will discuss some of the key elements of developing technique, including:
Practice
Practice is a crucial component of developing technique. Regular, focused practice can help musicians to build their skills and improve their ability to play their instrument. There are different types of practice that can be effective, including:
- Scales and arpeggios: Scales and arpeggios are basic musical building blocks that can help musicians develop their finger dexterity and control. Practicing scales and arpeggios can also help musicians develop their ability to play in different keys and at different tempos.
- Etudes: Etudes are short, technical pieces of music that are designed to help musicians develop specific skills, such as fingerings, articulation, and phrasing. Etudes can be challenging, but they are an effective way to improve technique.
- Repertoire: Playing music from a variety of genres and styles can help musicians develop their technique and musicality. Repertoire can range from classical to contemporary, and from jazz to rock.
Fingerings
Fingerings refer to the specific way that a musician uses their fingers to produce a sound on their instrument. Different fingerings can produce different tones and colors, and can also affect the ease of playing. Musicians should experiment with different fingerings to find the ones that work best for them.
Breathing
Breathing is an important aspect of playing many instruments, particularly wind and brass instruments. Musicians must learn to control their breathing to produce a steady, consistent tone. This can be challenging, but with practice, musicians can develop their breath control and improve their technique.
Posture
Posture is also important for playing an instrument. Musicians must learn to hold their instrument and body in a way that allows them to play comfortably and accurately. Good posture can help prevent injuries and improve technique.
Overall, developing technique requires a combination of practice, experimentation, and attention to detail. With time and effort, musicians can improve their ability to play their instrument and develop their musical skills.
Reading Music Notation
When learning to play a musical instrument, one of the first and most important skills to master is reading music notation. Music notation is a written representation of the sounds and rhythms of a piece of music. It is used by composers, musicians, and music educators to communicate and teach musical ideas and concepts.
Music notation is typically written on a staff, which is a set of five horizontal lines and four spaces. The lines and spaces on the staff represent different pitches, with the lower notes on the bottom of the staff and the higher notes on the top. The notes on the lines of the staff are represented by the letters A, B, C, D, E, F, and G, while the notes in the spaces are represented by the same letters but with an accidental (a sharp, flat, or natural) added.
Musical notes are represented by a combination of the letter name and the accidental. For example, a note with a sharp (#) after the letter name indicates that the note is one half step higher than the note represented by the letter name alone. Similarly, a note with a flat (b) after the letter name indicates that the note is one half step lower than the note represented by the letter name alone.
The length of a note is indicated by its shape. The taller the note, the longer it lasts. There are four basic note values: whole note, half note, quarter note, and eighth note. These note values can be combined to create longer or shorter notes, such as the whole note, which is equal to two half notes, or the sixteenth note, which is equal to two eighth notes.
Rhythm is also an important aspect of music notation. Rhythm is the pattern of stressed and unstressed beats in a piece of music. Rhythm is typically notated using time signatures, which indicate the number of beats in a measure and the type of note that gets the beat. For example, a time signature of 4/4 means that there are four quarter notes in a measure and that the first beat of the measure is the downbeat.
Understanding music notation is essential for learning to play a musical instrument. It allows musicians to read and interpret the written music, and to understand the structure and form of a piece of music. With practice and repetition, reading music notation becomes easier and more intuitive, allowing musicians to focus on expressing the music and bringing it to life.
Exploring Different Styles and Genres
Exploring different styles and genres is an essential aspect of learning to play a musical instrument. This process involves familiarizing oneself with the unique characteristics and nuances of various genres, which can help the musician develop a broader understanding of music and enhance their technical abilities.
There are several ways to explore different styles and genres when learning to play an instrument. One approach is to listen to a wide range of music, paying close attention to the different elements that make up each genre. This can include studying the rhythms, melodies, harmonies, and instrumentation used in various styles, as well as the techniques and techniques employed by different musicians.
Another way to explore different styles and genres is to attend live performances or concerts, which can provide a more immersive experience and an opportunity to see how different genres are performed in a live setting. Additionally, participating in jam sessions or collaborating with other musicians can also be a valuable way to learn about different styles and genres, as it allows the musician to experiment with different sounds and techniques.
Ultimately, exploring different styles and genres is a crucial part of the learning process for any musician, as it can help to broaden their musical horizons and inspire new ideas and creativity. By exposing oneself to a wide range of music, a musician can develop a deeper appreciation for the art form and gain a greater understanding of the endless possibilities that exist within it.
Recap of Key Points
Before delving into the nitty-gritty of playing a musical instrument, it is important to understand the fundamentals of instrumentation. Instrumentation refers to the composition of an orchestra or ensemble, including the different types of instruments used and their arrangement. Familiarizing oneself with the basic principles of instrumentation can help one appreciate the nuances of different musical genres and the role of each instrument in creating a particular sound.
One of the key principles of instrumentation is the arrangement of instruments in an ensemble. The choice of instruments and their placement can greatly affect the overall sound of a piece of music. For example, a string quartet typically consists of two violins, a viola, and a cello, each with a specific role to play in creating a balanced and harmonious sound. Similarly, a jazz ensemble may include brass and woodwind instruments, as well as a rhythm section, to create a unique and dynamic sound.
Another important aspect of instrumentation is the range and timbre of each instrument. The range of an instrument refers to the range of pitches it can produce, while the timbre refers to the unique quality of the sound it produces. Understanding the range and timbre of each instrument can help one choose the right instrument for a particular piece of music and ensure that all instruments are used to their full potential.
In addition to range and timbre, the technique and skill required to play each instrument is also an important consideration in instrumentation. Some instruments, such as the piano and violin, require years of study and practice to master, while others, such as the trumpet and saxophone, may be easier to learn but still require a certain level of skill and technique.
Finally, the history and evolution of different instruments and their role in various musical traditions is also an important aspect of instrumentation. For example, the guitar has a rich history in both classical and popular music, while the drum set has played a key role in the development of jazz and rock music. Understanding the historical context of different instruments can help one appreciate their significance and place in the world of music.
Overall, instrumentation is a complex and multifaceted subject that plays a crucial role in the world of music. By understanding the fundamentals of instrumentation, one can gain a deeper appreciation for the role of each instrument in creating a particular sound and the unique qualities that make each instrument special.
Further Resources for Studying Instrumentation
There are a plethora of resources available for those who wish to delve deeper into the study of instrumentation. Some of these resources include books, online courses, and even dedicated websites that specialize in the subject.
Books
Books are an excellent resource for those who want to learn more about instrumentation. There are many books available that cover various aspects of musical instruments, such as their history, construction, and playing techniques. Some examples of books that are highly recommended for those interested in instrumentation include “The Science of Musical Instruments” by Arthur H. Benade, “The Art of String Playing” by Slava Rostropovich, and “Teaching Music Through Performance in Band” by Raymond F. Karnes.
Online Courses
Online courses are another great resource for those who want to learn more about instrumentation. There are many online courses available that cover various aspects of musical instruments, such as their history, construction, and playing techniques. Some examples of online courses that are highly recommended for those interested in instrumentation include “Introduction to Musical Instruments” offered by the University of London on Coursera, “Musical Instruments” offered by the Berklee College of Music on edX, and “Instrumentation and Orchestration” offered by the Juilliard School on Coursera.
Dedicated Websites
There are also dedicated websites that specialize in the subject of instrumentation. These websites often offer a wealth of information on various aspects of musical instruments, such as their history, construction, and playing techniques. Some examples of websites that are highly recommended for those interested in instrumentation include “The Violin Site” which offers information on violins and violin playing, “The Trumpet Site” which offers information on trumpets and trumpet playing, and “The Guitar Site” which offers information on guitars and guitar playing.
It is important to note that while these resources can be incredibly helpful in deepening one’s understanding of instrumentation, they should not replace hands-on experience and lessons with a qualified teacher. It is recommended that anyone serious about learning to play a musical instrument seek out professional instruction as well.
FAQs
1. What is instrumentation in music?
Instrumentation refers to the combination of musical instruments used in a particular piece of music. It includes the choice of instruments, their timbres, and the way they are arranged to create a desired sound or effect. Different instruments have different tonal qualities, and the way they are combined can greatly affect the overall character of a piece of music.
2. What are the different types of musical instruments?
There are many different types of musical instruments, including woodwinds (such as flutes, clarinets, and saxophones), brass (such as trumpets, trombones, and tubas), strings (such as violins, cellos, and basses), percussion (such as drums, cymbals, and xylophones), and keyboard instruments (such as pianos and organs). Each type of instrument has its own unique sound and is suited to different styles of music.
3. How does instrumentation affect the mood of a piece of music?
The choice of instruments and the way they are arranged can greatly affect the mood or atmosphere of a piece of music. For example, a piece written for a large orchestra with strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion will have a very different feel from a piece written for a small ensemble with only a few instruments. The timbre of each instrument can also affect the mood, with warm and mellow instruments like the cello or oboe creating a more introspective or contemplative atmosphere, while bright and bold instruments like the trumpet or timpani can create a more energetic or celebratory mood.
4. What is the difference between acoustic and electronic instruments?
Acoustic instruments are those that produce sound through the vibration of their materials, such as strings, wood, or metal. Examples include pianos, guitars, and drums. Electronic instruments, on the other hand, use electronic circuits to generate and manipulate sound. Examples include synthesizers, samplers, and drum machines. Electronic instruments can often be used to create sounds that are difficult or impossible to achieve with acoustic instruments, and they offer a wide range of tonal possibilities.
5. How does instrumentation affect the dynamics of a piece of music?
The choice of instruments and the way they are arranged can also affect the dynamics, or volume and intensity, of a piece of music. For example, a piece written for a large orchestra with many loud instruments like trumpets and trombones will have a much different dynamic range than a piece written for a small ensemble with only quiet instruments like violins and cellos. The use of percussion can also add dynamic interest, with instruments like snare drums and cymbals providing accents and contrasts in volume.
