Definition & Meaning of "timpani"

What are "timpani"?

Timpani, also known as kettle drums, are large, bowl-shaped percussion instruments with a drumhead stretched over a copper or fiberglass shell. They are played with mallets and produce a deep, resonant sound. Timpani have adjustable tension mechanisms, allowing the player to change the pitch by tightening or loosening the drumhead. They are commonly used in orchestras and bands, providing powerful rhythmic and melodic support. The timpani's ability to produce specific pitches makes it unique among drums, enabling it to play both rhythmic patterns and tuned notes in a musical composition.