A Percussionist's Notebook

 One of the manifestations of my OCD is that when I start thinking about something I find it difficult if not impossible to let go of it. I made two more wood blocks but this time I used my scroll saw cutting the inside of 2 X 4s so only the top and bottom were open. Cutting a slot in the top front I glued 1/4" dry erase whiteboard on the top and 1/2" plywood on the bottom. After the glue set I installed small wire brads top and bottom to re-enforce the glue. Sanding the tops and bottoms evened out the block and rounded the edges. I applied walnut wiping stain to give it a 'hardwood' finish.  Yea, the staining didn't turn out too well ("I'm a drummer Jim, not an interior decorator!"). But they sound very good. I still have to decide if I want to put silicon on the tops.  Now maybe I can put this project to rest.  

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...