Arranging and Orchestration Concepts !! 109the fourth space above the treble clef. Vibraphones are constructed in dif-
ferent sizes and ranges (see example 6-10).
Example 6-10 Vibraphone range.Xylophone
The xylophone is one of many instruments that have wooden bars. The
bars are struck, most often with wooden hammer-like mallets. The xylo-
phone is played in a manner similar to that of the vibraphone, except that
the xylophone does not have a sustain pedal. The notes are configured the
same as a piano keyboard. Used in moderation, the distinct wooden sound
is effective when combined with orchestral instruments such as wood-
winds. Xylophones are manufactured in different sizes, and consequently
their ranges vary.
Range:Parts are written in the treble clef and sound one octave above
where they are written. The lowest written note is F, below the treble clef,
and the highest written note is C, above the treble clef (see example 6-11).
!!Balaphones (marimba-
like instruments) are from
the African countries, and
their tunings and number of
wooden bars vary from
country to country; they are
struck with mallets, which
are made in a variety of
sizes and materials. Their
unique sound, used spar-
ingly, is very effective.Example 6-11 Xylophone range: staff indicates where the parts are written.Marimba
The marimba is similar to a xylophone
and is struck with hard or soft hammer-
like mallets. Similar to the xylophone, the
marimba has wooden bars and no sustain
pedal. The notes are configured the same
as a piano keyboard. The marimba has a
mellower sound than the xylophone.
Range: The marimba is a non-
transposing instrument. Parts are written
in the bass and treble clefs. The lowest
note is C, on the second-to-the-bottom