Organological evolution of timpani construction in the XIX century in the classical orchestra

- · 25.06.2026

Review article
DOI: 10.56620/2227-9997-2026-2-124-133

Mikhail M. Putkov

Gnesin Russian Academy of Music, Moscow, Russia,
1948.90@List.ru, https://orsid.org/0009-0003-0945-7218
Abstract: In the XIX century, the construction of the timpani, one of the most popular percussion instruments in the symphony orchestra, underwent significant changes due to the development of tuning mechanisms, instrument shape, and, ultimately, performance technique. These changes were driven by composers’ growing interest in the timpani and the need to create more complex parts for the instrument, containing a large number of tunings impossible with previously existing tuning systems.
An analysis of the history and evolution of timpani design forms the methodological basis of this article. In conducting this research, the author adhered to the principles of reliability, completeness, and objectivity of the research material. The novelty lies in the fact that for the first time, the organological evolution of the timpani is explored, information is provided on changes in the instrument’s design, and the most significant designers, musicians, and timpanist figures who influenced its history, structure, and, consequently, performance and composition practices are highlighted.
The novelty of this article lies in the fact that it is the first Russian-language study of the organological evolution of the timpani from the perspective of its influence on the greatest musicians of the 19th century. The article provides information about changes in the instrument’s design and highlights the most significant figures of instrument makers, composers, conductors, and timpanists who have influenced the historical evolution of the timpani and, consequently, the practice of performance and composition.

Keywords: organological evolution, timpani construction, instrumental music, percussion instruments, timpani, percussion instrument family, history of percussion, history of timpani

For citation: Putkov M. M. Organological evolution of timpani construction in the XIX century in the classical orchestra. Scholarly papers of Gnesin Russian Academy of Music. 2026;(2):124-133. (In Russ.). DOI: 10.56620/2227-9997-2026-2-124-133
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