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Wood Blocks

Wood blocks are ideal for teaching multiple percussion since different sizes produce different pitches, requiring the student to read multiple lines and or spaces. The problem is that I have a limited number of wood blocks to loan out for my students to use. A few years ago I decided to made some quick and easy wood blocks.

I used pine 2 X 4's since they were easy to get and cut. Using a jig saw they were cut into 'U' shapes, 1/16" plywood was glued on the bottom and 1/4" toe kick board for the top (beating surface), and a small strip for the front to form a slot.  Molefoam© was used for the feet. The result was about as quick and dirty of a project that I have ever done but the sound was acceptable for practice. 

 
A later version had an integrated front slot by drilling holes before cutting the 2 X 4. 

Recently I found that by gluing rubberized tool drawer lining to the top created a sound similar to a Temple block.


Since I now have a scroll saw I should be able to make cleaner and more precise cuts for the body of the wood block. 










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