Simple Steps to Keyboard Percussion

Cirone avoids the trap of assuming percussionists already know what they're doing on keyboard instruments. This book treats mallet technique, grip, and posture with the same rigor you'd expect from a wind method, building confidence from the first page rather than leaving beginners to figure things out through trial and error.

Methodical and reassuring. Cirone breaks down what can feel overwhelming into manageable components, so students build skill in logical steps rather than wrestling with complex pieces before understanding the basics.

Beginning percussionists who need systematic instruction in vibraphone, marimba, xylophone, and bell techniques. Students in band or orchestra programs benefit from clear, instrument-specific guidance rather than general percussion advice.

• Establish proper mallet grip before moving to any exercises; sloppy grip early becomes a hard habit to break later.
• Coordinate hands independently on exercises that isolate one hand at a time before combining both.
• Pay attention to the specific setup recommendations for each keyboard percussion instrument, as positioning and striking zones differ.
• Practice mallets of different weights separately to understand how grip and arm weight adjust for each.

Use this as your foundational text for any student picking up mallets for the first time. Assign sections sequentially during the first semester to ensure everyone understands grip, posture, and basic striking technique before pulling them into full ensemble pieces.

• Proper mallet grip and hand position
• Striking accuracy and control on keyboard percussion
• Marimba, vibraphone, xylophone, and bell technique fundamentals
• Mallet selection and weight adjustment
• Posture and arm alignment
• Basic four-mallet technique foundation