Gear article
Percussion Plus Professional Glockenspiel Mallets
The Percussion Plus Professional Glockenspiel Mallets are specialized hand percussion beaters designed for orchestral and ensemble performance. Featuring a hard-plastic head and white ash shafts, they are engineered to provide a high-volume output with a heavy attack on tuned percussion instruments.
See live pricesOverview
The Percussion Plus Professional Glockenspiel Mallets serve as a fundamental tool for percussionists requiring a bright, assertive tone. These mallets are categorized within the hand percussion group and are sold as a pair. They are distinguished by their use of traditional tonewoods for the handle combined with modern synthetic materials for the striking surface, ensuring durability and consistent performance across various venues.
Design and Materials
The construction of these mallets focuses on two primary components:
- Shaft: Crafted from lightweight white ash, the wooden handles are designed to offer comfort and playability. The choice of ash provides a balance of flexibility and strength, allowing the player to maintain control during fast passages.
- Head: The mallets feature a hard-plastic head. This rigid material is chosen for its ability to produce a sharp, defined strike upon contact with metal bars.
Sound Character
The sonic profile of the Percussion Plus Professional Mallets is defined by a heavy attack. Because the plastic head is significantly harder than rubber or felt alternatives, it generates a loud, piercing sound that cuts through dense musical textures. This makes them particularly effective for large ensembles, such as wind bands or full symphony orchestras, where the glockenspiel must be heard over a high volume of brass and woodwinds.
Target Audience
These mallets are positioned as an essential item for student and professional percussionists alike. Given their high volume and aggressive attack, they are best suited for players performing in large-scale orchestral settings rather than intimate chamber music or solo practice environments where a softer touch might be required. They are compatible with a range of instruments, including the Sonor Orff NG31 Alto Chromatic Glockenspiel.
Market Comparison
Within the Percussion Plus catalogue and the wider hand percussion market, these mallets occupy a functional niche. While percussionists may also utilize auxiliary items like the Meinl Spin Spark Shaker or the Stagg 5-1/2" Cowbell for rhythmic texture, these mallets remain a core requirement for melodic percussion. Compared to softer mallets, the hard-plastic head offers more volume than rubber options but less warmth. At a price point of approximately £15, they are competitive with entry-level and intermediate accessories from brands like Stagg and Meinl.
Related gear
£3.99 ($5)Stagg
Stagg Plastic Egg Maracas Red
£9.99 ($13)Stagg
Stagg Rock 5-1/2" Cowbell Black
£119.00 ($151)Sonor
Sonor Orff NG31 Alto Chromatic Glockenspiel
£23.70 ($30)Remo
Remo 6 Single Row Headless Tambourine Black
£299.00 ($380)Meinl
Meinl Planetary Tuned Crystal Singing Bowl 12" Earth Year / Om
£16.00 ($20)Fender
Fender Blues Deluxe Harmonica A
£23.80 ($30)Meinl
Meinl Spin Spark Shaker Black Nickel
£7.30 ($9)Meinl
Meinl Small Plastic Egg Maracas Black
Frequently asked questions
- What material is used for the mallet shafts?
- The shafts of these professional glockenspiel mallets are constructed from white ash. This wood is selected for its lightweight properties and comfortable feel during play.
- What is the head of the mallet made from?
- The mallet head is made from hard plastic. This choice of material ensures a bright, sharp sound and long-lasting durability.
- Are these mallets suitable for large orchestras?
- Yes, they are specifically designed for larger ensembles. The hard-plastic head produces a loud sound with a heavy attack that carries well in big rooms.
- How many mallets are included in a standard purchase?
- These are typically sold and described as a pair of mallets. As an essential for percussionists, they are intended to be used for two-handed melodic playing.
- What is the typical price for these mallets?
- The Percussion Plus Professional Glockenspiel Mallets usually retail in the price range of approximately £15.00. This makes them an affordable professional-grade accessory.
- How does the attack of these mallets compare to others?
- These mallets provide a heavy attack. This means the sound is immediate and loud upon striking the instrument, rather than soft or muted.
- Can these mallets be used on other instruments?
- While designed for the glockenspiel, they can be used on other hard-surfaced percussion instruments like the xylophone or the Sonor NG31. However, the hard plastic may be too abrasive for softer wooden bars.
- Is the white ash handle durable?
- Yes, white ash is known for its resilience and strength-to-weight ratio. It is a common choice for professional-grade drumsticks and mallet shafts due to its durability.
- Who is the manufacturer of these mallets?
- These mallets are manufactured by Percussion Plus. The brand is known for producing a wide range of educational and professional percussion instruments.
- Are these mallets comfortable for long practice sessions?
- The manufacturer highlights the lightweight white ash shaft as a feature for exceptional comfort. The balance of the wood handle is designed to improve playability during extended use.
- Do these mallets have a soft side?
- No, these are professional hard-plastic mallets designed for maximum attack. If you require a soft sound, you would need to look for felt or rubber-headed alternatives.
- Are these mallets considered an entry-level or professional product?
- Per the manufacturer description, these are 'Professional' glockenspiel mallets. They are designed to meet the demands of serious percussionists playing in ensemble settings.
