Mallets x 4

I was given the part of vibes for a song we're playing in band called "The Light Eternal." It's a really cool song and a really cool part I've got.

However.

It requires using four mallets to play. Luckily, the 28 measures that require four mallets are very slow, which gives me some extra, much needed time to think about where my appendage-extensions should go next.

But still. It's pretty darn tough. Which is good, because I like a musical challenge. And it will definitely be a challenge.

First off, I have never played with four mallets before. We usually don't learn how to do it until high school (speaking of high school, next year I'll be in Symphonic Wind band, which is the 2nd best group- pretty good for a freshman!).

Secondly, it's very different from playing with just two mallets. Mainly, you have to use your forearms a lot more than your wrists. Otherwise, the mallets will get jiggled out of place. And it makes your fingers sore and gives you blisters.

And lastly, I only have 8 days till the concert. Eight days to learn the part. I've only worked out the first seven measures, too!

But I like it. It's interesting. And the music is really pretty, too.