Roll

As Printed on a Score

Shown by three slashes through the stem (or a trill line), with the word roll sometimes added; it lasts for the length of the note, and tied notes continue it. The Italian rullo and French roulement may also be printed.

Also spelled: rolls

How Composers Use It

Rolls sustain a sound on timpani, drums, cymbals and mallet instruments, turning a struck instrument into a sustaining one. Timpani and mallets use single strokes; snare drum uses a buzz or double-stroke roll. Give the start and end dynamics, which shape the roll, and name the beater for colour. Show clearly whether the roll ends with a stroke on the following note, usually written by tying the roll into it, or stops before it.

Related Terms