Playing with Mallets
Thumb Slap
Index Finger Slap
Thumb and Index Finger
Dampen Sound with Fingertips
In addition to playing with
your hands, you can play two
adjacent
notes
simul-
taneously with one hand by
using your thumb and index
finger and start a different
chord.
When playing with your hands, you can dampen the sounds by applying light pressure with
your fingertips on the note after hitting it with your hand.
- page 4 -
Playing Position
Playing Position
To play the Zenko in a sitting position, place it flat
on your lap, with the 2nd note closest to you,
making sure it’s far enough away that you don't
have to bend your arms to reach the nearer notes.
Alternatively you can play the Zenko by placing it on a stool,
chair or table top using the foam support provided with your
drum.
If you wish to play the Zenko in a standing position, we advise
you to use the special Metal Sounds stand which the Zenko
can be screwed to.
Technique
The easiest way to play the Zenko is to use
mallets. Use the rubber head mallets included
with the drum or your own of similar hardness.
Playing with your hands is more demanding but
gives a richer sound. You can also play with your
thumb or index finger. The thumb gives a rounder sound and
is more suitable for the lower notes. The index finger
produces a more accurate tone and is suitable for all notes.
The best method is to hit the tongue directly letting your
finger bounce away from the note immediately to avoid
dampening or muffling its resonance.
