The history of percussion instruments is traceable to the Old Testament. These instruments, used on only a limited basis throughout the history of the church, have re-emerged in contemporary worship. This article describes various hand-held percussion instruments and their usage in Christian worship.
Rhythm is an essential element in all music. Be it plainsong or jazz, pulse is present. Percussion instruments, identified by the way in which they are struck when played, can enhance the inherent rhythms found in music. From the subtle strike of a triangle or clicking of claves to the flashing roll of a tambourine, percussion instruments have added flavor and excitement to worship since biblical times.
Hand-Held Percussion Instruments
Hand-held percussion instruments are those that are small enough to be held in the hand when played. Some common instruments include tambourine, claves (wood sticks), triangle, finger cymbals, maracas, castanets, cabasa shaker, guido, and all manner of small drums. It is also important not to overlook the instruments we all carry with us—our hands that can clap, and our fingers that can snap. For purposes here, we will discuss three of the most common instruments: tambourine, claves, and triangle.
Tambourine. The tambourine, most often referred to as the timbrel in Scripture, is an ancient instrument, popular in many cultures throughout the world. It is a round, shallow drum with jingling metal disks fitted into the rim that is shaken with one hand and struck with the other, producing a shimmering ring. It may or may not have a drum head. In more recent years a “half-moon” shape variation has evolved offering a bolder, more aggressive sound. The tambourine’s primary use is for colorful rhythmic accentuation. There are various ways to play the tambourine: by tapping the rim; by swinging back and forth with a measured pulse: or by shaking continuously with strikes on accented beats.
Claves. Claves consist of two round hardwood sticks that are struck together. One is cradled in the hand, forming a resonating chamber, while the other is used to strike against it. Hardwood (rosewood, ebony, walnut) is the material of choice. It produces the characteristic chirp, sounding very similar to a cricket. Claves should be played lightly, not banged together, as the sound of good quality wood carries easily. They are usually played on the off-beat.
Triangle. The triangle is a length of steel tubing bent to form a triangular shape open at one corner. It is usually suspended from a cord of leather or string and played with a metal striker. Triangles are of indeterminate pitch, and the size and gauge of tubing affect the tone. Too large a gauge will give a “dinner bell” sound, while too small a gauge will give a thin, weak sound. The triangle can be played effectively with a single strike as musical punctuation; it can be played by rapidly striking two adjacent sides, creating a “roll”; or it can be played with a specific rhythmic pattern.
Reinforcing the Rhythm of an Ensemble
Physical proximity to the primary music ensemble is crucial when using these percussion instruments. This is particularly true with respect to the tambourine, which has a critical effect on rhythmic stability. It is important with any of these instruments to play a pattern that is sympathetic to the music and that reinforces the rhythmic thrust of the rest of the ensemble.
Consistency with the pattern is desirable. A rhythmic motif should not change every other measure but should repeat a pattern that will increase rhythmic stability. It is good to begin with a simple rhythmic motif and develop the pattern further as the song continues. In a song or hymn with a verse-refrain form, it is sometimes effective to play only on the refrain. In a strophic song or hymn, it is best to wait until the piece is firmly established before adding the ornamentation of percussion. Care must be taken to remain faithful to the idiom, to the rhythm inherent in the music, and to the rhythmic patterns played by the whole ensemble.
Enhancing the Worship Experience
In psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, hand-held percussion can add a joyful presence, a spark of new interest, and excitement. One recalls Miriam playing her timbrel in jubilation after the Hebrews’ safe crossing of the Red Sea, or the priests of Levi sounding cymbals in temple worship at the time of King David. Tambourine and drum can give the feel of a Renaissance dance to an old familiar hymn that has its origins in folk song. The influence of percussion in popular music can be utilized in contemporary sacred songs, as well as the snapping of fingers to a swinging “blues” tune or the clapping of hands to a rhythmically compelling song.
The Lord gives many instruments to praise his name, all of which can add to the worship of the people of God. As the psalmist exhorts, “Praise him with tambourine and dancing, … praise him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!” (Ps. 150).