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The tonal effect of becoming darker and lighter can be used effectively
in the fourth movement of Brahmss Symphony No. 1. At measure 375, the
timpanist begins a roll on the top of the head, allows the mallet to progres-
sively penetrate the head until the forzando at the beginning of measure 376,
and then retreats toward the top of the head. In the last two measures of the
roll, the timpanist can again play deeper into the head, supporting the pro-
gressive darkening sound of the orchestra. In this passage, the effect of dark-
ening and lightening the color of the roll by playing the head is reinforced
by the crescendo and decrescendo in this passage. In sum, playing the head
permits timpanists to interpret and play the part more expressively.