Page:Instruments of the Modern Symphony Orchestra.djvu/62



The orchestral glockenspiel consists of a series of from twenty-seven to thirty-seven graduated bars of steel, chromatically tuned, and mounted and played in similar manner to the xylophone. Its possibilities of execution are the same as the xylophone, but in the absence of any method of damping the tone, passages in too rapid tempo sound confused and are of poor effect. The clear, bell-like tones of this instrument are sparkling in their brilliancy and are of an incisive quality that penetrates the entire orchestra. A noteworthy use of the glockenspiel by a great composer is in the last act of Wagner's "Meistersinger;" also in "Siegfried," and especially in the magic fire scene in "Die Walküre."

This is an instrument of great antiquity. It consists of twenty-seven (or a few more) hardwood blocks, graduated in length, mounted on taut cords, and all set in a suitable framework. The blocks are arranged in two rows, like the keys of a piano, and are accurately tuned. The instrument is played by striking with two light, flexible beaters of willow or boxwood.

The tone of the xylophone is hard, dry, and rather hollow in quality. Very rapid passages, including trills, are possible by the skillful performer. Its use in the symphony orchestra is occasional and solely for the production of unusual—especially humorous effects.

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