Jun-Wei Chen, Timpanist

• Interviewer|Yun-Ruei Chang
• Interviewee|Jun-Wei Chen, Timpanist

1. Why did you choose the timpani as your instrument?

A:  The teacher's advice.

2. Do you like it? Why?

A: Yes, I like the majestic sound.

3. How to play a timpani?

A: Using sticks to knock the surface.

4. What's the structure of timpani?

A: The shape of the drum body is like a hemisphere and the body is made of brass with some small hole. The surface is made of leather or plastic and inlayed in a metal frame. Under the drum is a treadle which can adjust pitches of the timpani by changing the tightness.

5. Why did you want to join Children Orchestra?

A: At first, I just wanted to try it but I fell in love with music.

6. Did you feel difficult? Why?

A: No, interest is the best teacher.

7. Will you conquer or give up when you encounter the difficulty?

A: I conquer. There are nothing if you give up.

8. Do you practice at home? Why?

A: No. The timpani is big and expensive. I can't carry it around or buy it by myself.

9. Did you ever want to change instruments? Why?

A: I wanted to learn the accordion because it was a bit boring to keep playing a percussion instrument.

10. The daily practice is hard. And we train in vacations. Did you ever want to quit? Why?

A: No, I love Children Orchestra.

11. What do you think about the practice?

A: It was very happy to perform in different kinds of music.

My interview is over. Thank you.