Miaopei Arts Academy - 2026 Miaopei Lecture Series III: Percussion, Harp, and Keyboard Instruments - Rhythm, Color, and Special Sonorities "From Timpani to Celesta and Piano: Hearing the Various Percussive Sounds in the Orchestra"

Lecturer: Mr. Lin Jen-pin (林仁斌), Chairman of the Taiwan Bounce Arts Association (台灣蹦藝術協會).
Percussion, Harp, and Keyboard Instruments: Rhythm, Color, and Special Sonorities
In the orchestra, percussion not only handles rhythm but also shapes timbre, reinforces sectional transitions, and can even become the core sound of a work. The timpani is often associated with bass, harmony, and cadential effects; the snare drum, bass drum, cymbals, and gong establish rhythm and dramatic tension; while the xylophone, glockenspiel, celesta, and harp bring finer layers of timbre.
In this lecture, Mr. Lin Jen-pin will introduce the classification and function of percussion instruments, extending to keyboard instruments in the orchestra such as the harp, celesta, and piano. He will explain how composers use these percussion instruments to alter musical atmosphere and create surprises, helping the audience understand that orchestral sound comes not only from melody but also from rhythm, accent, and timbral design.