percussion etymology

Etymology

  • Latin: percutere (to strike through, beat upon)
  • Proto-Indo-European: *per- + *kwet- (to cut)

Meaning and Origin

Percussion refers to the act or sound of striking or beating something. It encompasses a wide range of instruments that produce sound by vibration when struck, shaken, or scraped.

The term originated in Latin, where percutere meant "to strike through" or "beat upon." This verb is derived from per ("thoroughly, through") and quatere ("to shake").

In music, percussion instruments are those that do not produce sound by blowing or string vibration. Instead, they rely on the physical action of striking or agitating. This includes drums, cymbals, gongs, bells, xylophones, marimbas, and many others.

The use of percussion instruments has been documented throughout history in various cultures around the world. They have played an integral role in religious rituals, ceremonies, and musical performances. Percussion instruments create rhythmic patterns and add depth and excitement to musical ensembles.

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