noun
timpani
TIM-puh-nee/ˈtɪmpəni/
Large orchestral drums that can be tuned to different pitches.
The timpani add a deep rumble to the orchestra's finale.
Etymology
The Greek kettledrum-name comes from a verb meaning “to beat or strike,” naming the instrument through the action that sounds it. Timpani is the plural name for the orchestral drums.
In context
Like the bass drum, you strike the timpani to make^a sound. Each timpani can be tuned to a different pitch.
More examples
- She tunes the timpani before the rehearsal begins.
- A foot pedal changes the pitch of each timpano.
- Soft timpani rolls build tension beneath the violins.
Forms
timpano · timpani
timpanist noun — A musician who plays the timpani.
Similar words
- kettledrum
- Usually refers to one of these tunable orchestral drums.