BE AWARE OF WHERE YOU ARE STRIKING THE DRUM!
Too close to the center and the sound get dumpy.
Too close to the edge and the sound gets thin.
Proper Striking Area
The proper striking area on the timpani is normally about 4 inches from the rim, but each drum should be tested to find the best striking area that produces the best tone.
~ If the drum is hit too close to the center it will produce more of a "thud" instead of a good tone.
~ If the drum is hit too close to the rim it will produce a sound with too much "ping" instead of a good tone.
A little experimentation will quickly indicate where each drum should be struck.
The sound of the timpani should be noble and beautiful.
Listen to great orchestras for reference.
SUGGESTED LISTENING EXAMPLES
Strauss: Burleske in D minor for Piano and Orchestra
W.W. Norton - 4 CD Musical Example Bank --Disc 2, Track 14
Borodin: Prince Igor, "Polovetsian Dances", section D
W.W. Norton - 4 CD Musical Example Bank -- Disc 1, Track 14
Saint-Saens: Samson and Delilah, "Baccanale" (conclusion)
W.W. Norton - 4 CD Musical Example Bank --Disc 3, Track 11