Schwammschlägel

As Printed on a Score

Printed over a timpani, cymbal or tam-tam part, usually as “mit Schwammschlägel(n)” and sometimes broken across a line (Schwamm-schlägel). It lasts until another stick direction.

Also spelled: Schwammschlaegel, Schwammschlegel

How Composers Use It

Sponge-headed sticks give a soft, round, almost attackless sound: a cymbal or timpani roll swells out of nothing. They are a nineteenth-century colour; percussionists today usually substitute soft yarn or felt mallets unless told otherwise. Mahler asks for them on cymbals for a soft-edged stroke.

Example

Mahler, Symphony No. 5, second movement, cymbals, m. 175: “mit Schwammschlägel.” at f, falling to p in the next bar.

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