TC 1-19.30 — Percussion Techniques
TC 1-19.30 governs percussion performance in Army Bands, including small ensembles, ceremonial music, and concert band techniques.
- Publication number: TC 1-19.30
- Title: PERCUSSION TECHNIQUES
- Date: 09/08/2025
- Proponent: T2COM
- Status: ACTIVE
View TC 1-19.30 on armypubs.army.mil
It covers Army percussion history, task organization, drum set performance, charts, individual skills, maintenance, ceremonies, and common concert band instruments. It explains tone production categories, performance techniques, instrument-specific considerations, and resources for self-study and maintenance.
Topics covered
- Percussion performance
- Drum set in small ensembles
- Military ceremonial music
- Performance charts
- Percussion instrument maintenance
- Concert band percussion
- Tone production
Questions and answers
What does TC 1-19.30 require percussionists to know about striking areas?
Percussionists must know the physical sound qualities of each instrument with respect to tone production. (paragraph 1-15)
How should percussion implements be selected?
Select an implement with the appropriate mass (i.e., weight) to achieve the desired or characteristic sound of the instrument (determined by the genre or style of music). (paragraph 1-16)
What details can be included in percussion charts?
Possible details to include into charts are: Time signatures. (paragraph 2-56)
When is the simple duple cadence used by Army Bands?
The simple duple cadence (often referred to as 2/4 cadence) is the default cadence used by Army Bands (see figure 3-4). (paragraph 3-42)
What tempo is used for music performed while marching?
Music used for marching is performed at a tempo between 112-118 beats per minute, with 116 as the preferred tempo for most occasions. (paragraph 3-25)