Percussion Education Hub

In this lesson, professional percussionist and educator, Keith Aleo shares a deceptively simple but powerful method that unlocks fast, reliable playing with two hands—plus a bonus tip for achieving a soft, dry sound when needed.

The tambourine can be a bold, splashy instrument—but what happens when the music demands restraint? In this post, we explore a refined technique for achieving soft, articulate tambourine sounds, guided by the legendary Keith Aleo. Whether you’re prepping for orchestral excerpts or elevating your control in a chamber setting, this deep dive will help you think musically, not just mechanically.

When it comes to concert castanets, there’s a big difference between just getting the job done and owning the moment. At Black Swamp Percussion, we’ve spent nearly three decades perfecting the design and sound of our Pro Handled Castanets—and it shows. These instruments don’t just sound great; they feel right in your hands, respond beautifully across dynamics, and stand the test of time in concert halls around the world.

The Special Sauce Tambourine Roll is perfect for quick transitions that would otherwise be awkward with traditional methods.

As a student percussionist, you’re not just developing technique—you’re building your musical voice. That means learning how to make smart, intentional decisions, even when the part looks simple.

Discover how to transform your tambourine playing with a fusion of techniques from the Arabic riq, Brazilian pandeiro, and Southern Italian

Bronze has been a mainstay in the world of percussion for centuries. From ancient cymbals and gongs to ceremonial bells and battlefield signals, the material carries a rich and resonant history. At Black Swamp, we’ve honored that legacy by selecting a specific bronze alloy for our Legacy triangles—one that delivers a harmonically rich, dynamically responsive, and shimmeringly sustained sound.

After 3 decades, Black Swamp knows what it takes to create a successful, high-quality product that's consistent, inspiring, and built to last.

One simple yet highly effective tool for improving finger rolls is tambourine wax.

Black Swamp Sound Plates—Disc Bell and Anvil Gong—are designed to add unique metallic textures to your percussion setup. This guide walks yo

The story behind crafting the Black Swamp 30th Anniversary Snare Drum.

The triangle may seem like a simple instrument, but in Dvorak’s Ninth Symphony, it plays a critical role in adding color and texture to the