The art of playing the Triangle
"Ill play triangle in the band"
Every musician has heard it. Every musician has cringed and laughed at the age old request.
Having played in bands my whole life I've heard it over and over and over and... you get the point.
But its not as easy as it sounds. Theres an art to it.
I have played percussion in a wind ensemble and in orchestra for musicals such as Oliver!, Rocky Horror Picture Show and Deluge: The Musical (local productions), and I can assure you that a conductor will have your ass if you play a triangle wrong.
So things to know about being 'that guy (or girl)' who plays triangle;
It needs to be suspended. If you dont have it suspended, and are just holding it, your going to sound like clinking a knife and fork together, killing anyones apetite. Unless your chasing an afro-cuban or samba, your musically sinking the titanic.
Dynamics is king. Triangles are loud. A well struck triangle will pierce the music quicker then that first needle through your lip when you were 15because you were hell rebelious and wanted a punk rock lipring. Its not to be rapidly struck like Farmer Bill signalling the dogs that its dinner time. Respect the triangle.
There will be no spotlight. There is no 3 sided glory. Theres no 5 minute shredding solo. If you just want to be part of it, dont expect to be the most important. If your dream has always been putting in that single perfectly placed chime in the background..... this could be your calling.
"No-one wants another triangle player, but have you considered the tambourine?"