Hmm, I am not sure, but I think that some symphonic tympani heads have significantly different "texture" to the surface (with corresponding difference in surface friction) than some of the more utilitarian/indestructible heads that may be on the high school instruments we are using? Could this explain the difference in the ability to produce the desired sound effect for the whale bit? The variation could be akin to whether or not one wet's a finger or not before trying to "play" a crystal wineglass. <rant> Personally, I am TRYING to like this piece, but.. It seems to be very sloppily/lazily arranged, not what I usually expect from Robert W Smith. I am hopeful that Cindy's efforts will be successful. </rant> Mike Fugere [log in to unmask] -----Original Message----- From: Upper Valley Community Band [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of John Erickson Sent: Monday, December 06, 2010 9:14 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: "Songs of Sailors and Sea" recordings online Tim was asking about these: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UR1HyxUe4-c http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xgPXlFlvjI -- John S. Erickson, Ph.D. http://bitwacker.com [log in to unmask] Twitter: @olyerickson Skype: @olyerickson