Whether you’re a seasoned percussionist or just starting out, mastering the tambourine requires a blend of technique, control, and finesse. In this lesson, Josh Jones will be sharing tips for playing the tambourine, covering everything from hand positioning to striking techniques and roll execution. These tips will help you achieve a more articulate and dynamic sound, enhancing your overall performance.
Josh Jones is using a Chromium/Bronze Combination SoundArt Tambourine in the video lesson above. Learn more about Black Swamp Tambourines on our website 👇
Meet Your Instructor
Josh Jones is a Black Swamp Artist and renowned percussionist who began playing drums at the age of two. He received formal training with the Percussion Scholarship Group under Patricia Dash and Douglas Waddell. Josh’s journey includes performances with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and a fellowship with the Detroit Symphony. Currently, he serves as the Principal Percussionist for the Grant Park Orchestra. Alongside performing, Josh is passionate about teaching, conducting clinics, and writing books on percussion technique.
View Josh's published books, online courses and more at his website: Drum Mojo
Proper Hand Positioning: The Foundation of Control
To begin, let’s focus on how to hold the tambourine properly. Whether you’re right-handed or left-handed, the key is to ensure the tambourine is free and relaxed in your hand. Start by resting the tambourine at the back of your wrist, then wrap your index finger around the inside of the frame. This is what truly holds the tambourine in place—there’s no need to squeeze or apply extra pressure. The rest of your fingers should wrap around comfortably, maintaining a loose grip that allows the tambourine to move freely. This relaxed hold is crucial for producing a smooth, natural sound.
Striking Techniques: Using the Whole Arm
When it comes to striking the tambourine, it's recommend to use the entire weight of your arm, from the shoulder down to the fingers. This approach allows for a fuller, more powerful sound without overexerting your wrist. Think of it as a type of molar stroke, where you wind up and let the weight of your arm guide the motion. Remember, if you feel tension or fatigue in your wrist, it’s a sign you’re using too much wrist action and not enough arm. Using the arm provides better support and a more articulate sound, while relying solely on the wrist can lead to a weaker, less defined strike.
Rolls: Achieving a Smooth, Full Sound
One of the most challenging techniques on the tambourine is executing a smooth roll. The key here is relaxation. A relaxed grip is essential for a successful shake roll. There are a few places where you can loosen your grip to achieve different effects. Relax the muscle between your thumb and index finger, which allows the jingles to move more freely and produce a fuller, more articulate sound. Alternatively, you can relax the back of your pinky, which also results in a wetter, more fluid sound from the jingles. Experiment with relaxing different parts of your hand to find the sound that works best for you.
Mastering the tambourine is all about control, relaxation, and understanding how to use your body’s natural weight and motion to produce the best sound. By focusing on proper hand positioning, utilizing your whole arm for striking, and experimenting with different relaxation points during rolls, you can elevate your tambourine performance to the next level. Happy playing!
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