I've recently gotten the Steven's book and I'm taking lessons on marimba. I didn't think to ask my instructor this question so I'm going to pose it to you?
When doing scales with mallets 2 and 3, what interval is suggested to keep with mallets 1 and 4?
Thanks
-ian

Ian,

FWIW, with Stevens grip, playing scales with the sticking you described, the mallets in either hand tend to set at the interval of a fourth or fifth, roughly speaking.

I don't know that it's necessary for the scale practice you describe, but I'd practice your single independent strokes and sequential sticking patterns while holding the mallets at a number of different angles, everything from seconds to octaves. If you're just starting out, start with a midrange interval (4th or 5th), and as you develop strength and coordination with the grip, start incorporating different intervals between the mallets of either hand. Eventually (and ideally), you should be able to execute those techniques at everything from a second to at least an octave, even though most times your mallets will likely rest at an interval somewhere inbetween.

And while I'm ranting here...don't just practice your scales alternating mallets 2 and 3. Try the combinations of mallets 1&3 and 2&4 as well - and maybe use mallets 1 and 4 to practice in octaves.

(I'd suggest all of this regardless of the four-mallet grip being used, BTW.)

JW