unpitched

Unpitched refers to sounds that do not have a definite pitch or tonal center. In music, it is most commonly used to describe percussion instruments whose sounds are inherently non-pitched, in contrast with pitched percussion instruments whose sounds define specific pitches (for example, xylophones, marimbas, vibraphones, and chimes). The term may also apply to singing or speech in which the voice lacks a fixed pitch, though this usage is less common.

In practice, unpitched percussion includes drums (bass drum, snare drum, tom-toms), cymbals, tambourine, triangles, wood blocks, claves, castanets, maracas, shakers, and rattles. These instruments typically contribute rhythm, timbre, and accent rather than melody. Some instruments can produce a range of pitches when struck differently or tuned, but they are generally categorized as unpitched because their primary musical function is rhythmic or coloristic rather than melodic.

Notation for unpitched percussion often omits definite pitch. Music for these instruments uses a percussion staff or a single line with instrument-specific abbreviations, focusing on rhythm and articulation. Composers may assign specific playing techniques (e.g., rimshot, buzz roll) to convey desired timbres, while exact pitch is left unspecified.

The distinction between pitched and unpitched percussion is a standard consideration in orchestration, marching band, and contemporary music. It informs instrument selection, rehearsal needs, and how players interpret rhythm and tone color within a piece.