The triangle may seem like a simple instrument, but in Dvorak’s Ninth Symphony, it plays a critical role in adding color and texture to the music. Choosing the right triangle and beater can make all the difference in bringing out the musical nuances of this iconic symphony.
The Triangle in Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9
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TL;DR
The first roll of Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 is critical and should sound like a clear call or signal.
A large bronze beater with the artisan 8-inch triangle provides power and expression.
The 6-inch Artisan triangle with the steel spectrum teardrop beater allows for dynamic control and tone variation.
Beater selection plays a huge role in balancing brightness and articulation across different sections.
Meet Your Instructor
Gerardo Capaldo is a Black Swamp Percussion Artist, a composer, and percussionists for the Teatro alla Scala and Filarmonica della Scala. Gerardo is also the author of The Orchestral Tambourine and several original compositions including Campus Manfoli, which was commissioned by Black Swamp Percussion for the 20th Anniversary of the Multisonic Snare Drum.
The Triangle in Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9
Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 is a powerful and evocative work, known for its rich orchestration and dramatic melodies. The triangle, though small, contributes a unique brightness to the piece, particularly in key moments such as the first roll in the Third Movement: Scherzo. This opening is almost like a call or signal, and choosing the proper equipment is essential to convey that feeling effectively.
Combining Steel and Bronze
In Dvorak’s Ninth Symphony, the first roll requires an authoritative yet resonant sound. Gerardo’s combination of the artisan 8-inch triangle with a large bronze beater is a strong choice for this section. The bronze beater brings out the warmth of the triangle, while the larger size ensures the sound is powerful enough to project, creating the feeling of a call that resonates throughout the orchestra.
This combination also allows for expressive playing in moments that require both dynamic range and tonal clarity, making it ideal for the early section of the symphony.
Exploring Dynamic Control
When switching to the artisan 6-inch triangle with the steel spectrum teardrop beater, dynamic control becomes more nuanced. This combination is used by Gerardo in the second section of Dvorak’s Ninth. The smaller triangle, combined with the teardrop beater, allows for greater flexibility, enabling the player to shift between softer tones and louder dynamics simply by adjusting the playing angle or stroke strength.
This setup is particularly useful in passages where tonal changes need to be subtle but impactful. The steel beater’s sharper attack contrasts well with the 6-inch triangle’s more delicate sound, offering a versatile range for different musical contexts.
We did a full deep dive blog post about this exact triangle beater. The shape and material make it one of the most versatile options in a percussionist bag.
A Mix Of Brightness and Articulation
To achieve the perfect balance of brightness and articulation, the 5-inch legacy bronze triangle paired with a medium select beater is another excellent option. Gerardo uses this combination for faster or measured rolls, particularly when forearm relaxation and ease of play are crucial.
The medium beater’s weight allows the triangle to produce a bright yet controlled tone, making it ideal for passages that demand clarity without overpowering the ensemble.
This pairing is great for measured rolls, allowing for precise articulation while keeping the sound consistent across dynamic ranges.
Experimentation is Key
The triangle’s role in Dvorak’s Ninth Symphony demands careful consideration of both triangle size and beater material. Whether you’re aiming for the powerful resonance of the artisan 8-inch triangle with a bronze beater or the nuanced control of the 6-inch triangle with a steel spectrum beater, the key is to experiment with different combinations until you find the right sound for the context of the music. As always, take time to test your equipment, adapt to the orchestra’s needs, and discover what works best for you.
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