My Timpani
Hardtke Berlin Classic with classic heavier
bowls in four sizes: 81-74-66-62 cm (32" 29" 26" 24
½")
Why I play Hardtke Timpani
I'll never forget how I discovered these
marvelous drums. I was in Ottawa listening to a National
Arts Center Orchestra rehearsal. The first entrance from the
timpani was one pianissimo note. That was it!
I was immediately sold on these drums. I had
never heard such a beautiful note coming from a timpani. I
had to have them! Hardtkes' richness of sound, the darkness
of color, and what I like to call character, is simply the
best. Furthermore what I find very unique with Hardtke
timpani is the wonderful dynamic range that these drums
posses.
The ppp's are always clear and audible, and
the quality of sound and pitch remain beautiful throughout
the dynamic spectrum.
Another aspect of the Hardtke company worth
noting is the sales and after sales service. Excellent and
professional in all aspects! This is very unique in this day
and age.
As you can see there are many reasons why I
play on these drums. But the main reason – I'm never
disappointed.
My Mallets
Various models of Louis Charbonneau and
Jens-Peter Kappert mallets from Germany.
Timpani Heads
I use Kalfo calf skin heads.
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My thoughts about being a timpanist
I cannot identify with one particular aspect of being a
timpanist in a symphony orchestra that I like the most.
Rather, it is the entire experience that I find
exhilarating. Producing different sounds, dynamics, musical
moods, a driving rhythmical energy, or that one note ff
punch, are all aspects that I enjoy immensely.
With the position of timpanist in an orchestra comes
great responsibility. The sheer power and presence of this
instrument can greatly influence a performance. Therefore I
am always prepared and equally important, always musically
conscious of my surroundings during a performance, as there
is very little room for error. Finally it is a profession
that I find extremely rewarding, gratifying, and there is
never a dull moment. Career
Andrei Malashenko has been the principal timpanist of the
Montreal Symphony Orchestra since 1999. Prior to his
appointment in Montreal, he was the principal timpanist of
the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra where he also taught at
the University of Victoria in Wellington. He has also played
timpani and percussion with various ensembles such as The
New Zealand Chamber Orchestra, Imusici de Montreal and the
McGill Chamber Orchestra.
Andrei Malashenko studied percussion at McGill University
with Pierre Beluse.
After graduating with high distinction in percussion, he
continued his studies in timpani repertoire at the
University of Montreal with Louis Charbonneau.
Andrei has taught at both McGill University and
University of Montreal and is currently director of timpani
and percussion at the Centre D'Arts Orford Orchestral Summer
program.
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