Bacchette di spugna

As Printed on a Score

Printed over a timpani, cymbal or other percussion part where sponge-headed sticks are wanted; the choice lasts until another stick type is named, and the player needs rests to change.

Abbreviations: bacch. di spugna

How Composers Use It

Sponge sticks give the softest, roundest attack: a cymbal roll swelling out of nothing, or a timpani note with almost no articulation. Berlioz asked for them for the distant thunder in the Symphonie fantastique. Use them for atmosphere and fades; for definition at louder dynamics choose felt or wooden sticks.

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