Vibraphone

As Printed on a Score

Labels the vibraphone line (Vibraphone, Vib. later — an abbreviation also used for vibrato, so treat it as an instrument name only at the left of a staff). Written at sounding pitch in treble clef; pedalling is shown with Ped. or brackets, and the motor is switched with motor on and motor off.

Abbreviations: Vib.

Also spelled: Vibes

How Composers Use It

Metal bars over resonating tubes give a warm, sustained tone; the damper pedal lets it ring, and motor-driven fans add a pulsing vibrato that can be fast, slow or off. It entered the orchestra from jazz and suits soft chords, sustained colour and gentle melody. Mark pedalling, motor speed and mallets, because with the pedal down and no damping, changing harmonies smear.

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