Famous timpanists playing Hardtke Timpani

“Wolfgang Hardtke simply makes supremely good instruments; the excellent standards of craftsmanship allied with innovative improvements to the original Ringer design provide drums with a deep rich tone, good sustain and a clean, focused centre to each note across an enormous dynamic range.”

Simon Carrington / Londoner Philharmonie Orchester

“Being a timpanist in an orchestra combines the best of all worlds. You set a foundation in both rhythm and time.”

“Being a timpani player means being present musically and physically, always being noticed by every audience member and ensemble member…”

“The position of principal timpanist in an orchestra requires you to take on a huge responsibility. For me, it’s exciting to think about how, unlike the percussion instruments, the timpani were developed in the orchestral tradition.”

“My interest has always been in timpani as essentially harmonic, rather than percussive instruments. To me, it’s very important to have an acute awareness of the timpani’s harmonic role at any given point in the music.”

“Timpani is so much more than just a percussion instrument! For me, the sound is one of the most important features.”

“I love the mystery, the color, and the hidden gems waiting for the special moment to play so softly that you can feel the theatre hold its breath.”

“A great timpanist is the anchorman of the orchestra!”

“How great it is for me! I am the only player in the orchestra to hold this position, as opposed to other players, who have several others playing in their position.”

“I don’t know of a better job than playing in an orchestra, and there’s no better job in an orchestra than being the timpanist.”

“I cannot identify with one particular aspect of being a timpanist in a symphony orchestra that I like the most. Rather, it is the entire experience that I find exhilarating.”

“I find great satisfaction in orchestral playing where interaction is key and best represents to me what live music is about.”

“I certainly agree with many other Timpanists in that with the position comes great responsibility, power of sound, and the opportunity to be creative.”

“I love physical activity, as well as inspirational moments. Timpani gave me that outlet.”

“For me, the timpani is the soul of the symphonic orchestra, is its tower of control, and it is incredible how much this beautiful instrument can change the sound and the character of any piece of music.”