Unique Marimba Sound

While the marimba may be new on the scene by comparison to other instruments, it is certainly clear why its popularity has skyrocketed since its introduction; its one-of-a-kind sound! The marimba’s rosewood bars provide an incredible tone unlike any other, which is why rosewood is often referred to as “wood that sings”, and the instrument’s perfectly-tuned resonators amplify and carry that unique song to its audience. Plus, with an average range of four or five octaves, and the opportunity to use four mallets at a time when playing (for those that can, we applaud you!) the combinations of notes, duration, pace, and dynamics, among other factors, are seemingly endless! This point is beautifully punctuated by professional marimba

Clearly, both those who can play the marimba know it well, and can articulate the beauty of its sound. Below are some of our favorite quotes from some very talented professional marimba artists:

“The sound of the marimba is friendly to the human ear” –Katarzyna Mycka ^[1]

"This is an instrument with a huge dynamic range, and one that can sing with the beauty and innocence of a child or with the aggression of a rock band!" –Daniella Ganeva ^[2]

“I can feel my emotion flowing through the instrument and bursting forth into the beautiful, warm wooden sounds of my favorite music.” –Eriko Daimo ^[3]

How does marimba music affect you? Maybe you have a favorite marimba quote? Share it with us in the comments section!


1. "Eriko Daimo." Marimba One. Retrieved Oct 2, 2012. 2. "Biography." Daniella Ganeva. Retrieved Oct 2, 2012.

The Versatility of Marimba Music

While the marimba has long history, it has only emerged in Western music within the last hundred years. Still, even in such a short period the marimba has been introduced into both new and old musical works and has crossed musical barriers, making its way into a variety of different genres.^[1] Of course, the marimba still holds firm as the symbol and star of traditional Guatemalan music. Indeed, the Guatemalan waltz “Luna de Xelajú,” originally composed by Paco Pérez in 1942 and featuring the marimba has been performed by most of the great musicians of the country, and has developed into something of an unofficial anthem for the people.^[2][3]



Additionally, the marimba has not just become a background instrument in concert ensembles. The talent of professional marimba musicians has put the instrument in the spotlight and has made it the standout of concertos. Here is one of our favorites:



So tell us your favorite marimba piece! Which do you enjoy playing the most? Maybe a favorite marimba performance video to share? We want to hear it!


1. “What is a Marimba Concerto?” wiseGEEK. Retrieved 26 Sept 2012. 2. Rodriguez, Jazmine. “Sounds of Guatemala: The Marimba.” Roots and Wings International. 29 Sep 2011. Retrieved 26 Sept 2012. 3. “Music of Guatemala.” EconomicExpert.com. Retrieved 26 Sept 2012. Videos: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGtuR5_4EcY