How to Play the Triangle Musical Instrument

When an orchestra performs, its different sections all work together to create the music. Although you often cannot hear individual instruments, each one contributes an important sound that blends to make the finished result. No instrument is insignificant in an orchestra, regardless of its sound or size. The percussion section includes a variety of different instruments that contribute to the foundation of the music. One percussion instrument that adds a resonant pitch is the triangle. While easily overlooked, the triangle adds an important dimension to orchestral music.

Things You'll Need

• Triangle instrument

Instructions

1. Grasp the triangle in your nondominant hand, holding it by the clip or string attached to it at the top. If the triangle has a clip, place your index finger above the clip and your thumb and other fingers below the clip--making sure your fingers do not contact the triangle at all (this would muffle the vibrations). If the triangle has a string, grasp the string far enough above the triangle to avoid touching the triangle with your fingers.

2. Hold the triangle even with your eyes with your arm slightly extended.

3. Grasp the beater firmly with your dominant hand. Strike the triangle with the beater on any of the three sides. One technique involves striking the triangle on the outside edge. Another technique involves placing the beater inside the triangle and striking the inside edges of the triangle. Use this technique if you desire a fast rhythm, because you can strike the beater back and forth between two sides quickly this way.

4. Watch the conductor so you know when to play, and listen carefully to the other instruments, in order to feel the rhythm of the music. You will usually play the triangle along with the established rhythm of the music.

Tips & Warnings

• Another playing option for the triangle involves suspending it from a hook so that you do not need to hold it with one hand. Use a beater in each hand to strike the triangle--enabling a faster rhythm.

References

• ORSymphony: Instruments of the Orchestra: Percussion
• Virginia Tech Music Dictionary: Triangle