Hi everyone

I'm a percussionist who's not been playing much over the last few years due to having ME (CFS/CFIDS); ironically, I got it shortly after working hard for and buying my marimba four and a half years ago, with the result that I've barely played it. I'm currently having a year off uni and have decided to brush up my percussion. I'm not planning to go back to any orchestras or bands just yet (I'm not well enough, and I'm avoiding my psychopathic tuba-playing ex-partner), but I do have my marimba.

Problem is, I only have a couple of books of music: the Grade 7/8 mallet book from years ago, and some Bach (mostly violin music) that someone had decided was suitable for flute, and I decided was suitable for marimba. Also, I have to confess, my technique probably isn't all it should be by now. Any ideas where to look? As you can gather, I'm enjoying the Bach, and it's struck me that Spanish guitar music etc does sound fabulous on marimba. I've played some Albeniz, and there's that wonderful Rosauro concerto that I couldn't possibly manage for years I'm sure (and moreover, I've mislaid the CD). I've just discovered this site and was delighted to see a long list of pieces, but of course I haven't a clue what they're like and don't know how they're graded for difficulty (or where I fall in your scale).

Another forum I'm drifting around in (I won't confess what instrument but it's pretty far away from percussion) has said you can get music on the web. How does all that work? Since music tends to cost a fortune to buy I'd certainly be interested. How much music is adaptable, by the way?

Also, my marimba and piano were in storage over the winter and I think the storage place was not only cold but damp (I'm in Scotland). The piano seems to have recovered (I moved a fortnight ago) but the marimba is doing those lovely mystery buzzes, about the middle range. I've moved most of the things near it, music stand and so forth, and I suspect it's the marimba itself. Any ideas what I should do? It's your bog-standard Adams MSPV model. Could it be damaged by having been in the cold (certainly) and damp (probably)?

Eve

What is now proved was once only imagined.
Blake, Proverbs of Hell

If you like Bach, theres a book called "MODERN SCHOOL FOR XYLOPHONE, MARIMBA, VIBRAPHONE", by Morris Goldeberg. It ranges from beginner to advanced and has Concerto in A minor by Bach. It was only $10.00 when I got it so its pretty cheap. good luck with your studies.

I would have to agree with Scott--my teacher had me begin with the Leigh Howard
Steven book. Stevens even sets out practice regimens if you want to use them.
He also has a whole list of pieces at the back of the book and which exercise
prepares you for that piece. Make sure you switch instruments, so that you
don't hurt yourself.

Good luck!
Regan