Tag: double stop

2-Mallet Keyboard Exercise: Double Diminished Double Stops

James Christian
Double Diminished Double Stops, page 1
Double Diminished Double Stops
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Double Diminished Double Stops, page 2
…or click here to download in PDF format.

This exercise for two-mallet keyboard percussion utilizes double stops with a diminished 7th chord (also known as double diminished). Starting with A, the pattern cycles through all 12 keys, going up by a half step each time.

The goal of this exercise is to build fluidity of movement with double stops around the keyboard. You start by playing three repetitions on each interval, then two, then one. These patterns cycle through 18/8, 12/8, and 6/8 time signatures, respectively.

With all double stops, be careful to strike both notes together. As you get faster, I would recommend striking the upper manual bars on the edge, instead of the center. Strive for accuracy and consistent sound. Stay relaxed, and let the stroke come from the wrists.

As you get more comfortable with this exercise, it can be a good endurance builder. Don’t slow down on the 6/8 measures! Keep a steady pulse throughout the exercise. A metronome will be invaluable for keeping tempo. For added endurance, repeat several times.

Have fun with this one!

2-Mallet Keyboard Exercise: Double Stops Builder

James Christian
Double Stops Builder
Click on the image to enlarge or click here to download in PDF format.

The term double stops refers to striking two mallets at the same time.  They are an incredibly important skill to develop and master, and this exercise is a useful tool for practicing them.

In addition to having good double stop quality, it’s also important to transition smoothly between the upper and lower manuals.  In 16 measures, this exercise covers every possible configuration.

The breakdown is as follows:

  • Measures 1-4: accents with both hands on lower manual
  • Measures 5-8: accents with both hands on upper manual
  • Measures 9-12: accents with left hand on upper manual & right hand on lower manual
  • Measures 13-16:  accents with left hand on lower manual & right hand on upper manual

Within each of these four-measure sets, the non-accented notes (the “inner beats”) follow this configuration:

  • Measure 1:  both hands on lower manual
  • Measure 2:  left hand on upper manual, right hand on lower manual
  • Measure 3:  left hand on lower manual, right hand on upper manual
  • Measure 4:  both hands on upper manual

When playing this exercise, focus on distinct accents and clear (but softer) “inner beats.”  Make sure the double stops strike at exactly the same time.  Each interval should have a clear, blended sound.

Have fun with this exercise!

I also have to point out that this is the 50th post on Rudimental University!  Woo hoo!!!