The orchestral snare drum: different methodologies in the study

Abstract

In this project we intend to analyze, from the technical and bibliographic points of view, orchestral snare drum methodologies as used by percussionists who perform the instrument. Orchestral practice will be discussed based on the various contexts in which the snare drum is used, verifying the suitability of different technical approaches and materials as used in both academic and professional settings. We will start this research interviewing five percussionists of important Brazilian symphonic ensembles and teachers of two São Paulo state universities: USP and UNICAMP. The interviews will seek to determine each musician's relation to the instrument as related to the bibliographical material cited by the percussionists. We will also try to determine other influences, even if not mentioned, that have contributed to the musician's training. We will verify the use of personal techniques and those which are idiomatic to orchestral practice. On a second stage we will study how the use of certain study material contributes to the musician's preparation. These items will be checked with the technical concepts considered relevant to the respondent, predefining concepts such as the use of rudiments. Thus, it is our intention to contribute to the limited amount of research on the field of orchestral snare drum performance in Brazil. (AU)