The first step in playing Campana is to select the appropriate length of mallet. The mallet length depends on your hand size and the thickness of the bell’s rim. You should choose a mallet long enough to reach the lowest bell in the set effectively. Once you have chosen a suitable mallet, you need to learn the basic technique.
Starting with your right hand, hold the mallet between your thumb and first two fingers so that the mallet is parallel to the floor. Rest the end of the mallet lightly between the third and fourth fingers. Place the back of your hand near the rim of the bell, aiming to strike the bell at the 3 o’clock position. Strike the bell firmly to produce a clear tone, then lift your hand to stop the ringing.
When you play with your left hand, reverse the hand position as you did with the right hand. Place your hand near the bell’s rim, striking the bell at the 9 o’clock position. The rest of the technique is similar to the previous process.
Campana is often played in a small group, and each player is required to play several bells at different pitches. Thus, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the instrument’s layout to know which bell to play at every moment. The bells are arranged chromatically from smallest to largest. The player can use their right hand to play the high (smaller) bells, and the left is used to play the low (larger) bells.
To play a tune with Campana, you first need to learn the melody. Then, you should identify the notes at which you need to play the bells. This can be easily accomplished by marking the scores with symbols indicating which hand to use, which bell to play and at what time. When playing a tune in a group, it’s a good idea to practice playing your part along with others until everyone feels comfortable with their parts.
When playing Campana, it is crucial to develop a sense of rhythm. You should practice playing the bells in time with a metronome or a piece of music. Start by playing the melody slowly to get the timing right, then gradually increase the tempo.
Another essential aspect of playing Campana is to listen carefully to other group members. The instrument’s sound can be easily drowned out by others, so you must adjust your playing volume and timing to make sure your ringing fits with that of the others. When playing in tune with others, it is a beautiful experience that produces a harmonious sound.
In conclusion, playing Campana is a delightful experience that requires dedication and patience. It is essential to choose the right mallet, learn the basic technique, practice regularly, and listen carefully to other group members. With the proper approach, you too can become proficient in playing Campana and enjoy making beautiful music with others.