There are two options for playing the virtual marimba: on your computer keyboard (which I think is more responsive) or via your trackpad/mouse. The virtual marimba spans two octaves from middle C to a C an octave higher than high C. In terms of design, it’s intended to replicate sound of a real concert marimba complete with wooden bars that alters in both pitch and size across the range. On the app, the higher notes sits on the right-hand side of the instrument while the lower notes are towards the left. As such, flats and sharps is located in the raised row behind the front row that holds the natural notes. This arrangement is similar than the piano’s black and white keys.
Tapping or clicking on one of the bars trigger a virtual mallet that sounds out a resonant, warm tone from instrument. If you hold your finger down on a bar then the instrument will perform a rapid tremolo roll which mimics what you’d produce if you were to shake your wrists on a real instrument. Alternatively, you can simply drag your pointer over several bars and play quick runs. In this case, the cursor tracks with your movements so you know exactly where every strike occur.
How to Use the Virtual Marimba
For those who want to stick with their keyboard instead, the bottom row of letters on your computer keyboard will correspond to the lower octave. Natural notes are played using these keys: Z, X, C, V, B, N, and M. Sharps & Flats is covered using S, D, G, H & J. For the higher octave, you’ll find the top row of letters corresponding to the notes. Natural notes are played using these keys: Q, W, E, R, T, Y, U, and I. Accidentals for the same octave is mapped to the following number keys: 2, 3, 5, 6 & 7. In this way you can play both chords and melodies around the keyboard without having to move your hands too much. Pressing the question mark key toggles a help panel that displays this mapping.
Three demo buttons is located below the instrument. Pushing the first button sounds an extract of Fur Elise by Beethoven that shows the use of row of accidents for the passage of chords. The second button plays the initial theme from Ode to Joy that shows the lighter sound in the upper part of the range. The third button plays all twenty five marimba notes. It starts at the lowest bass bars, travels up to the highest trebles and then returns to the bottom. As each button is pushed it changes to a stop label to show that it has become the play button. Another push stops it and puts it under your control once more.
The slider in the transport area lets you control the master volume. The higher you move it, the louder your marimba will sound. Dragging it down to the left makes the sound softer. If you play in a shared space, this option could of come in handy. Furthermore, you can make the widget take up your whole screen (expand to full screen mode). This way, the instrument has more space on your screen, while all other content dissapears from view, helping you to concentrate on the bars and not miss any small key.
The best way to make the most of the widget is to try rolling a low bass note and hold it down. Notice how the vibrations build up as the simulated aluminum tubes ring deep below. Next play a quick hit on high bars. The contrast in tone is very clear. How about trying two fingers on any chord? Pressing two keys together will create a chord. It sounds good too. Lower notes are panned a little to the left and higher ones to the right, creating an immersive soundstage and giving the impression of being wider than it actualy is. If you have the time why not try playing a simple melodic phrase with one hand and add a rhythmic ostinato with the other. Input comes through quickly and the interface respond immediately. The important thing to know is that the audio engine doesn’t fire until you do something for the first time. A click on a bar or a press on a key fires the sound. Explore the dynamics and range slowley.