I just got my first marimba, and I don't want to damage my wrists or anything by inventing my own techniques. What's are the best books for beginners? I only have the Mel Bay book so far (Contemporary Mallet Method by Jerry Tachoir). It's good but he moves pretty fast into advanced concepts.

I've grown to appreciate the Mitch Peter's "Fundamental Method for Mallets", Book 1 and Book 2, published by Alfred. Starts with 2 mallet technique, covers technical exercises, reading, lots of keys. The end of Book 1 gets into 4 mallet, with a pretty good description of the different grips, including pictures. Book 2 covers more keys, more advanced reading and more 4 mallet stuff.

Goldenberg "Modern School for Xylo, Marimba, Vibes"

George Hamilton Green "Instructor for Xylo"

Buster Baile "Musical and Mental Calisthenics"