Meaning of "kettledrum" in English

A kettledrum, also known as a timpani, is a percussion instrument consisting of a large, bowl-shaped shell made of copper or fiberglass, with a stretched skinhead. The skin is typically made of calfskin or synthetic material. The pitch of a kettledrum can be altered by tightening or loosening the head using mechanical tuning systems. These drums are a staple in both orchestras and marching bands, known for their deep, resonant sound that can be played either with a mallet or by hand. They provide rhythmic foundation and dramatic emphasis in musical compositions.

Meaning of "kettledrum" in French

In French, a kettledrum, or "timbale," refers to the same percussion instrument found in orchestras and marching bands. Comprising a large, round shell with a tensed head, usually made of calfskin or synthetic material, the French kettledrum also allows for pitch variation through a tuning system. Its powerful, reverberating sound adds depth and intensity to musical performances. Typically played with mallets, these drums serve a vital rhythmic and dynamic role in a variety of musical arrangements across diverse genres.

Pronunciation of "kettledrum" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈkɛtlˌdrʌm/

Pronunciation Variations: There are slight variations in pronunciation, particularly between American and British English. In American English, the emphasis might shift slightly, resulting in a slightly softer "t" sound.

Pronunciation of "kettledrum" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /tɛ̃.bal/

Pronunciation Variations: Generally, the French pronunciation remains consistent across French-speaking regions, though local accents may subtly influence the overall sound of the word.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The orchestra's performance was enhanced by the rich tones of the kettledrum.
    (La performance de l'orchestre a été enrichie par les sons riches de la timbale.)

  2. He practiced playing the kettledrum for hours each day.
    (Il s'est entraîné à jouer de la timbale pendant des heures chaque jour.)

  3. The composer wrote a solo for the kettledrum in the new symphony.
    (Le compositeur a écrit un solo pour la timbale dans la nouvelle symphonie.)

  4. The kettledrum added a dramatic effect to the music.
    (La timbale ajoutait un effet dramatique à la musique.)

  5. She enjoyed the challenge of learning the kettledrum's complex rhythms.
    (Elle aimait le défi d'apprendre les rythmes complexes de la timbale.)

  6. The percussion section included several instruments, but the kettledrum stood out.
    (La section de percussion comprenait plusieurs instruments, mais la timbale se démarquait.)

  7. His favorite part of the band was playing the kettledrum during marching season.
    (Sa partie préférée de la fanfare était de jouer de la timbale pendant la saison de défilé.)

  8. The deep sound of the kettledrum resonated throughout the concert hall.
    (Le son profond de la timbale a résonné dans toute la salle de concert.)

  9. In the opera, the kettledrum created a sense of tension and excitement.
    (Dans l'opéra, la timbale créait une sensation de tension et d'excitation.)

  10. Learning to tune the kettledrum accurately was an important skill for him.
    (Apprendre à accorder correctement la timbale était une compétence importante pour lui.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "kettledrum" in English

Synonyms: timpani, timpano, bass drum, percussion drum, orchestral drum.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: drum, snare drum, tenor drum, bongo, conga, tom-tom, djembe, tabla, cajón, bongos.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "kettledrum" in French

Synonyms: timbale, timbale d'orchestre.

Antonyms: -

Similar Words: tambour, grosse caisse, caisse claire, djembé, bongo, conga, tom-tom, tabla, cajón, bongos.

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