T.H. Rollinson - Method for the Xylophone
T. H. Rollinson's Method for the Xylophone is a rare, early xylophone method that provides comprehensive instruction in foundational technique and musical interpretation. It covers essential scales alongside an extensive collection of technical exercises, with detailed guidance on executing embellishments such as grace notes, double appoggiaturas, gruppetti, trills, mordents, and turns. The method also features numerous solo pieces spanning multiple genres, including fantasias, polkas, galops, and marches. It’s a “look back in time” to early mallet percussion pedagogy.
Key Features:
- Rhythmic focus: The method emphasizes rhythm reading and rhythmic accuracy, which is fundamental to all percussion playing
- Graduated difficulty: Exercises progress logically from simple to complex patterns
- Mallet technique: Covers proper grip, stroke technique, and two-mallet playing fundamentals
- Reading skills: Develops sight-reading abilities through numerous exercises
- Musical preparation: Includes etudes and exercises that prepare students for orchestral and solo xylophone literature
Educational Context: This method has been widely used in schools and private instruction, particularly for students beginning their study of mallet percussion. It's often paired with other percussion methods and is considered part of the standard pedagogical literature for xylophone and other mallet instruments like marimba and vibraphone.
The method is particularly valued for its clear, methodical approach that builds solid fundamentals.