KETTLE DRUM Meaning and
Definition
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A kettle drum, also commonly referred to as a tympani, is a large percussion instrument that falls under the category of idiophones. It consists of a hollow, bowl-shaped drum made of copper or fiberglass, with a diameter that typically ranges from 20 to 36 inches. The kettle drum is played by striking it with padded mallets or drumsticks, which produce distinct and resonant tones.
The drum is equipped with a tension mechanism, usually in the form of a foot pedal, that allows the musician to control the pitch of the drum. By altering the tension of the head, the musician can produce a wide range of pitches, which are further modified by striking different areas of the drumhead. The pitch of the kettle drum can be easily adjusted to match the other instruments in an orchestra or ensemble.
Kettle drums have been prominently used in orchestral music since the 17th century. They play a crucial role in providing depth, impact, and color to symphonies, concertos, and other large-scale compositions. Due to their versatility, kettle drums are capable of producing both thunderous and delicate sounds, making them an essential component of any percussion section.
In addition to orchestral music, kettle drums are also utilized in military and ceremonial events. Their deep, rich, and resonant sound is commonly associated with regal and grand occasions. Kettle drums are often played in pairs, with each drum producing a specific pitch. Their distinctive appearance and compelling sound have made them one of the most widely recognized and significant percussion instruments in the world of music.
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• A drum made of copper, shaped like half a globe or like a kettle, having thus only one parchment cover.
• Half of a globe or sphere of copper, having the mouth covered with parchment; see kiddle.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for KETTLE DRUM
- ketledrum
- kettledrum
- kettledrumm
- jettle drum
- mettle drum
- lettle drum
- oettle drum
- iettle drum
- kwttle drum
- ksttle drum
- kdttle drum
- krttle drum
- k4ttle drum
- k3ttle drum
- kertle drum
- keftle drum
- kegtle drum
- keytle drum
- ke6tle drum
- ke5tle drum
Etymology of KETTLE DRUM
The word "kettle drum" is composed of two parts: "kettle" and "drum".drum" can be traced back to the Middle English word "drumbe", which came from the Old English word "drumban" or "drumman", meaning to beat or resound. It has Germanic origins, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "drumbō". The word "drum" has been used to refer to various percussion instruments throughout history.
The specific word "kettle" used in conjunction with "drum" comes from the Latin word "catillus", meaning a small bowl or pan. In Latin, "catillus" was used to describe a type of cooking pot, often containing stew or soup. This Latin term evolved into the Old English word "cietel" or "cytel", which meant a cooking vessel or a hollow container.
Similar spelling word for KETTLE DRUM
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