Idiophones

Idiophones are instruments that are made from materials that have their own unique sounds--ceramics, glass, metal, or wood all create different vibrations. Sometimes they are hit (wood blocks, chimes), moved (bell and clapper) or shaken (rattles). They are generally considered part of the percussion section in a band or orchestra. The earliest idiophones were stones hit together to make music.

http://library.thinkquest.org/11315/idio.htm

Class Schedule

10:30-11:00 AM     Tap session, reviewing sound qualities of objects

11:00 - Noon          Scavenger Hunt, opportunity to look for items for washboards

1:00-3:00 PM         Washboard Building work session

3:30-4:30 PM         Hands-On Rhythm Fun

Bill Bailey          

Bill Bailey has over 40 years experience in percussion music, starting with lessons in Elementary and High School concert and marching bands.  In the late 60's his expertise in playing drumsets led to working with 'Rock' and 'Dixieland' style bands in the Dayton, OH area.  A few years later he earned a  BS in Education from Butler University in Indianapolis, IN.  He then had a 20+ year career in recreation in both public and private sectors. 

25 years ago Bill turned his attention to acoustical percussion instruments such as spoons, washboards, hambone, congas, Irish bodhran, various ethnic drums and regular household items.  He is currently the principal idiophonist/percussionist for five Indianapolis based bands.

Bill conducts workshops at various venues around the state of Indiana.  Shown here is a session on building a washboard conducted at the Center for Folk Traditions, Nashville, IN in April 2009.