Timbales

As timbales is called a Cuban (originally Creole ) drum pair of single-sided metal boilers (usually made ​​of copper or steel) without resonant head, which are mounted on a stand, which was also one or more cowbells and other accessories such as Wood and Jamblocks be attached. Sometimes a crash cymbal is one of them. Timbales belong to the percussion instruments are used despite the name similarity not with the timpani (French timbale ) or the Timbal.

The smaller and higher drum called " Primero " or " macho "; located to the right. The larger, deeper called " Segundo " or " Hembra ". The tonal pitch of the drums is usually between a third and a fifth. The Timbalero plays standing up and strikes the skin, but also the drum edges ( " Cascara " ) with two light drumsticks. This technique is called " Paila ". The timbales are often referred to in Cuba as " Pailas ". According to the Cuban writer Felipe Pichardo Moya (1892-1957) are " Pailas " vessels made ​​of steel or copper in the form of a " half orange ", which were used in the cane sugar factories to collect the raw sugar.

Since about the mid-20th century Timbales are an important part of Caribbean music, such as salsa combos. In addition, they are mostly by two cowbells, a jam block and a basin complements. In Cuba, they are sometimes integrated into a drum by being placed next to the hi-hat on the left.

The name " timbales " derives from the timpani, Spanish " Timbal " from which they originally developed.

Detailed, illustrated information on the history of the timbales as well as to the different timbales rhythms ( with notes and musical examples ) in the book by Changuito (see literature).

Known Timbaleros

• Tito Puente (1923-2000)
• Pucho Brown, director of Pucho & His Latin Soul Brothers
• Changuito, actually José Luis Quintana (formerly Los Van Van )
• Amadito Valdes, including contributors on the project Buena Vista Social Club
• Nicky Marrero ( Fania All-Stars )
• Giovanni Hidalgo
• Karl Perazzo ( Santana )