Marimbas
The marimba is part of the tuned percussion family. It frequently features in orchestral, jazz, and world music.
The marimba is part of the tuned percussion family. It frequently features in orchestral, jazz, and world music.
Now a common instrument in the modern percussionist's roster, Marimbas can be found in most orchestras. Marimbas consist of a set of wooden bars - shaped like long pipes - which are struck with mallets to produce a warm, resonant sound. Marimbas are available various different sizes and are versatile instruments that can be used to play melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. Browse our range, which includes professional and practice instruments!Showing 9 of 9 products
WHD Practice Marimba with Resonators
Olympic Practice Marimba, 3.0 Octave
WHD Professional Marimba, 4 Octave
Yamaha YM40 Marimba, 3.5 Octaves
Olympic Orchestral Marimba, Synthetic Notebars, 4.0 Octave
Olympic Orchestral Marimba, Synthetic Notebars, 4.3 Octave
Olympic Orchestral Marimba, Padouk Notebars, 4.0 Octave
Olympic Orchestral Marimba, Padouk Notebars, 4.3 Octave
Yamaha YM1430 Marimba, 4.3 Octaves
About Marimbas
Originating in Africa, the marimba has a rich history and cultural significance. Later, it was introduced to Central and South America, where it gained popularity and underwent significant evolution to become the modern-day marimba we know today.
Marimba bars are typically made of rosewood, a hard and dense tropical hardwood. However, other woods - such as padauk or synthetic materials - can also be used. The bars are arranged in order of pitch, with the lowest pitch bars on the left and the highest pitch bars on the right. Marimbas come in various sizes, ranging from small four-octave models to large five-octave models.
Many famous musicians have used the marimba to great effect in their music. Lionel Hampton, a jazz vibraphonist, was one of the first musicians to popularise the marimba in the United States. Mexican composer and marimba player Zeferino Nandayapa is credited with developing a new style of marimba playing that combines classical and folk music. Other notable marimba players include Leigh Howard Stevens, Keiko Abe, and Evelyn Glennie.
In addition to being a solo instrument, the marimba is often used in orchestral and ensemble settings. It’s a key component of many Latin American musical traditions, such as the marimba bands of Guatemala, Mexico, and Costa Rica. Today, the marimba remains a popular instrument in a variety of musical genres, including jazz, classical, and world music.
FAQs
What is a marimba?
A marimba is a percussion instrument with wooden bars that are struck with mallets to produce musical notes. It is similar to a xylophone and is used in various musical genres.
What country is known for the Marimba?
The marimba is particularly associated with the music of Guatemala. In Guatemala, the marimba is considered the national instrument and is an integral part of the country's cultural heritage. It is also popular in other Latin American countries such as Mexico and Costa Rica.
Is a xylophone the same as a marimba?
A xylophone is not the same as a marimba. Xylophone bars are typically made of wood, metal, or synthetic materials, while marimba bars are made of rosewood or other hardwoods. As a result, the marimba has a warmer, more resonant tone, while the xylophone has a brighter and more piercing sound.
