Composition Series. An introduction to Bowing techniques and possibilities for Composers to better understand the possibilities of bowing a vibraphone.
4 Mallet vibraphone bowing is the way of the future 😂 Such a helpful video about practical expectations of the player. I want to include this amazing sound in a composition, and had no clue how much I could ask of the player. You’re awesome, and very modest by the way!! Thank you.
Brilliant - very interesting for those of us who don't play percussion instruments. What about a multi-sided bow? Wouldn't that be a possibility? Bit specialist, though - but surely it should be possible.
I saw this technique used by our local symphony orchestra last night, for the first time! Is there a name for this technique? How is it notated in the score?
Bowing is the the term used. It is usually indicated with the word "bowed" or "with bow" in the part. A recommendation for composers is to continue to write your note lengths as you would a string instrument, or to indicate a l.v. (laissez vibrer) on short notes for quick response, but with ring.
Most definitely. There's lot's of different rosin, to consider. I use cello rosin for vibraphone, but use bass rosin for cymbals and other metallic objects.
I am a composer and your video saved me, Thank you !!
I came here after witnessing this instrument on a PBS All Star Orchestra. So fascinating!
Excellent info, Eric! Will share with composers when the question is posed!
One of my favorite techniques ever!
4 Mallet vibraphone bowing is the way of the future 😂
Such a helpful video about practical expectations of the player. I want to include this amazing sound in a composition, and had no clue how much I could ask of the player. You’re awesome, and very modest by the way!! Thank you.
Great explanation of bowing vibes!
Yes! very helpful. I'm studying Sam Wu's score of "Hydrosphere" and he uses this effective technique.
super video!thanks!
2024,.....this is like a performance piece,....a form of audible theater. I wish you had played a little sample of something. Neat idea.
Brilliant - very interesting for those of us who don't play percussion instruments.
What about a multi-sided bow? Wouldn't that be a possibility? Bit specialist, though - but surely it should be possible.
I saw this technique used by our local symphony orchestra last night, for the first time! Is there a name for this technique? How is it notated in the score?
Bowing is the the term used. It is usually indicated with the word "bowed" or "with bow" in the part. A recommendation for composers is to continue to write your note lengths as you would a string instrument, or to indicate a l.v. (laissez vibrer) on short notes for quick response, but with ring.
Thanks so much for the excellent video. Is it possible to down bow too?
Absolutely! I guess I just prefer up bows, but down works too.
Good ...
Do you recommend using rosen on the bows?
Most definitely. There's lot's of different rosin, to consider. I use cello rosin for vibraphone, but use bass rosin for cymbals and other metallic objects.
It sounds a bit like a glass harp, only more metallic.