To learn how to play the xylophone, follow the written steps or watch the video below. Be sure to read the "Important Tips" section at the bottom of the page. This covers important concepts not covered in the video or not emphasized in the written steps.
Written Steps - How to Play the Xylophone
Step 1
Stand with your waist about eight inches from the edge of the xylophone, and hold the mallets using the proper grip (covered in set-up).
Step 2
Hold the mallets slightly above and parallel to the xylophone. The mallets do not need be perfectly straight, instead they should be in a natural and comfortable position.
Stand with your waist about eight inches from the edge of the xylophone, and hold the mallets using the proper grip (covered in set-up).
Step 2
Hold the mallets slightly above and parallel to the xylophone. The mallets do not need be perfectly straight, instead they should be in a natural and comfortable position.
Step 3
Use your wrist to raise the mallet up about 7 inches above the bars (depending on the desired strike). Then use your wrist to strike the bar in the center of the bar (or on the edge for raised bars). The strike should be a quick motion, and the mallet should be brought back up immediately after contact.
Step 4
In another strike is immediately needed with the same mallet, bring the mallet back up to the position in step 3 and repeat. If not, retract it to the starting position.
Use your wrist to raise the mallet up about 7 inches above the bars (depending on the desired strike). Then use your wrist to strike the bar in the center of the bar (or on the edge for raised bars). The strike should be a quick motion, and the mallet should be brought back up immediately after contact.
Step 4
In another strike is immediately needed with the same mallet, bring the mallet back up to the position in step 3 and repeat. If not, retract it to the starting position.
Step 5
When playing the xylophone, imagine that you are drawing the sound out of the bars. this ensures the best tone possible.
When playing the xylophone, imagine that you are drawing the sound out of the bars. this ensures the best tone possible.
Video - How to Play the Xylophone
Important Tips
- Allow the mallets to bounce back up after striking the keys.
- Strike the lower keys in the center, and the upper keys in the center or on the end closest to you.
- Imagine that you are drawing the sound out of the keys when you strike them.
With a little practice, you'll soon be playing the xylophone with ease!