Note: the audio sample follows the Grand Staff score with each part played on a separate 12-inch drum. This sheet music is arranged for an 8-note, C major diatonic scale Tongue Drum (8, 11, or 13-note drums, but sounds the best on the larger instruments such as a 12-inch vs. 6-inch). Three separate types of scores are provided for maximum flexibility. Whether beginner or experienced musician, these scores can be used in numerous ways from solo playing to playing with a partner or as a group. A note and chord reference chart is included as well as a rhythm pattern chart. Descriptions, suggestions, and uses for each score and chart are detailed on the introduction page and summarized below:
Melody ScoreThis score can be played as a solo with or without singing along. Those new to reading standard music notation as well as those already familiar with music notation will find the numbers above the staff helpful. These numbers correspond to the numbers on the Tongue Drum. Lyrics appear below the staff for sing along enjoyment.
Chords Scores
Chords Score #1 consists of 2-note chords that harmonize with the melody. These simplified chords follow the beat (4/4 time: count 1, 2, 3, 4 in each measure) making it easy to accompany yourself or someone else singing the melody. Alternately, this score can be used in conjunction with the
Melody Score to form a duet by providing the accompaniment while someone else plays the melody.
Chords Score #2 is identical to Chords Score #1 except this score uses
Rhythm #5 instead of
Rhythm #1.
Note and Chord ChartThis chart consists of two separate staff rows. The first staff shows the notes used for the melody. The second staff shows the notes in each chord used in this song. Any combination of the notes within a given chord can be played using one of the rhythm patterns. The chord names are shown above the staff. The corresponding Tongue Drum numbers are shown below the staff.
Grand StaffThis score combines the
Melody Score with
Chords Score #1 providing a visual overview of how the two scores line up and is helpful for a director using this set of scores in a group setting. If playing with a partner (a duet), and both are familiar with standard music notation, this score may be easier to use since both players can see what the other person is playing.
Rhythm ChartThis chart shows six rhythm patterns that can be used as an accompaniment for the melody. The first rhythm pattern is the easiest and the one used for the
Chords Score #1 and the
Grand Staff. Using the
Grand Staff, follow the chord names above the melody staff to play notes from the given chord using one of the rhythm patterns.