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Percussion Education Hub
Where percussionists learn, grow, and get inspired.
percussion Lessons
Lessons for students and professionals for snare drum, tambourine, triangle, and more.
Buying guides
Detailed guides to selecting the perfect percussion instrument for your needs and budget.
instrument
deep dives
In depth looks at a selection of Black Swamp instruments outlining their features and benefits.
educator resources
Lesson plans, PDF downloads, inspiring interviews and more for percussion educators.


The Original Handled Castanets: Why Black Swamp Still Sets the Standard
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.
May 2, 2025


John Parks' Special Sauce Tambourine Roll Tutorial
The Special Sauce Tambourine Roll is perfect for quick transitions that would otherwise be awkward with traditional methods.
May 1, 2025


Think Before You Stick: Orchestral Snare Drum Sticking and Musicality
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.
May 1, 2025


How To Play Global Tambourine Techniques with Tom Teasley
Discover how to transform your tambourine playing with a fusion of techniques from the Arabic riq, Brazilian pandeiro, and Southern Italian
Apr 25, 2025


Legacy Bronze Triangles by Black Swamp: Features, Sound & Comparison
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.
Apr 18, 2025


4 Steps to Create a Successful Product: The Black Swamp Way
After 3 decades, Black Swamp knows what it takes to create a successful, high-quality product that's consistent, inspiring, and built to last.
Apr 11, 2025


How to Use Tambourine Wax to Improve Your Tambourine Finger Rolls
One simple yet highly effective tool for improving finger rolls is tambourine wax.
Mar 28, 2025


How to Install Rivets and Mount Black Swamp Sound Plates
Black Swamp Sound Plates—Disc Bell and Anvil Gong—are designed to add unique metallic textures to your percussion setup. This guide walks yo
Feb 19, 2025


Crafting a Legacy: The Story Behind the Black Swamp Percussion 30th Anniversary Snare Drum
The story behind crafting the Black Swamp 30th Anniversary Snare Drum.
Feb 7, 2025


Triangle Tips and Instrument Selections for Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9
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
Dec 6, 2024


The Ultimate Black Swamp Holiday Gift Guide for Drummers & Percussionists On Your List
'Tis the season to make some noise! Get shopping with our hand picked selection of percussion gear! Easy Stocking Stuffers Percussion Essentials Unique Percussion Gifts Easy Stocking Stuffers These gifts are small enough to fit in a stocking and thoughtful additions for the drummer or percussionist in your life. Wooden Drum Dampener $19.00 Our eco-friendly Drum Dampener is a sustainable percussion accessory crafted from exotic and domestic lumber. Each dampener measures 5" by
Dec 3, 2024


Triangle Performance Notes and Tips for Ravel’s Alborada del Gracioso
Selecting the right triangle and beater combination can make or break your performance in orchestral settings. In Ravel’s Alborada del Graci
Nov 22, 2024
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