Woud, Nick: The Timpani Challenge

Nick Woud, timpanist of Concertgebouw Amsterdam:

In this book, I once more have tried to present studies that are offering elements of what the professional timpanist meets in his work. I have striven to give a strong musical character tothe studies, and even to the exercises, so the student can experience all facets of this wonderful profession and to make sure the studying is enjoyable. Generally the book follows the same principle as Symphonic Studies, but offers a more demanding rhythmical and virtuoso approach. The metronome numbers are omitted, because the Italian terms should give enough information about the most logical and natural tempo and interpretation for the piece. With interpretation I mean, which modes of expression are part of the music [active, full sound, staccato, leggiero, marcato, dark, etc], as well as what kind of sticks to choose, drum sizes, set-up, intonation, etc. There is always a clear connection with a type of music, a composition or composer. The information in terms of the dynamic composition, the virtuosity or the colours that have to be created are all visible in the written music, so use your musical intelligence to discover first of all what the study requires, just by looking at it and singing it through. The book is published by Pustjens Percussion Products