Xylophon

The Xylophon, known in English as the xylophone, is a percussion instrument in the pitched or melodic percussion family. It consists of a row of wooden bars of graduated length, laid out like a keyboard and struck with mallets to produce definite pitches. The bars rest on a frame and are often paired with tuned resonators or cavities beneath each bar to amplify and sustain the sound. Materials for the bars are commonly hardwoods such as rosewood or padauk, though some modern versions use synthetic woods or composites.

Sound on the Xylophon is bright and clear, with a sharp attack and a bright, resonant sustain. The pitch of each bar matches its length, and the instrument is typically played with two mallets in each hand, using four-mallet technique for greater melodic and harmonic control. Commonly, players use hard or moderately hard mallets to emphasize articulation, while softer heads may be used for a fuller or looser timbre. The instrument is often mounted on a stand or table and can be found in orchestras, concert bands, percussion ensembles, and educational settings.

Historically, the modern Xylophon was developed in Europe in the 19th century, building on earlier wooden keyboard-like instruments from various cultural traditions. It established a standard concert range and mechanical refinements, such as precise bar tuning and resonator design. Today the Xylophon remains a staple of orchestral percussion and is widely used in pedagogical contexts to teach pitch, rhythm, and ensemble playing.

In use, the Xylophon contributes melodic material and rhythmic color, frequently in ensemble passages, solos, and contemporary percussion repertoire.