4 - Mallet Warm Up That's Not Boring

I hope you are having a relaxing holiday season. I have been staying inside, cooking/ eating way too much sugar, and catching up on reading. 

Today, I'm sharing my "4 Mallet Twinkle - daily warm up" 🥳 (You can download the PDF via the link)

I realized that many 4 Mallet method books have basic exercises that are not so “musical”. While it is great for working on a specific technique, it’s not so great for developing a good sense of phrasing. I’m all about efficiency and killing two birds with one stone when it comes to practicing!

That’s why I wrote this warm up based on the “Twinkle Twinkle” tune that everyone knows. 

This resource can be used to:

• Warm up 4-mallet playing daily 

• Evaluate each hand’s technique carefully

• Work on controlling dynamics on each mallet by bring out the familiar melody 

• Develop a great sense of musicality while warming up

• Cover most of basic 4 mallet marimba techniques such as independence, double stops, and rolls all in this 2-page warm up

By the way, I use the traditional grip or cross grip for 4-mallet playing. I believe that no matter what grip you play, you can learn to be excellent, as long as you give enough time to work on it and the grip is physically fit for you. If any of you want to try learning or have questions about traditional grip, I’m happy to help. You can always reach me at “chihiro@chihiroshibayama.com”

Lastly, I'd like to share a dose of inspiration with you! ⭐️

“. .the most crucial ingredient by far for success in music is . . .what happens in the practice room.” - William Westney, American Pianist 

I hope you and your family have a safe and wonderful holiday season 🥳

Happy (holiday) Practicing!

Chihiro