friction mallets

With " a friction mallet ," you can give your gong —for example, a TamTam Gong or Feng Gongstrike – long-lasting, singing, and ethereal sounds. Unlike when playing a gong with a gong mallet, the sustained sound is created by evenly rubbing the surface of the gong. Depending on the size and texture of the rubbing head, different frequencies can be emphasized—from bright, delicate tones to deep, room-filling sounds. In this way, gong rubbers create a fascinating soundscape reminiscent of the songs of whales or dolphins. A distinctive feature of our rubbers is that they leave no marks whatsoever on your gong when played.

What is a gong player?

A gong mallet—also known as a friction mallet—is used to set a gong into vibration by rubbing it evenly. It usually consists of a rod with a head made of rubber or caoutchouc. The mallet is guided across the surface of the gong with gentle pressure. This produces long-lasting, floating, and mystical tones that are often reminiscent of whale or dolphin songs.

Gong mallets are particularly well-suited for gong meditation, sound journeys, sound baths, and sound therapy. They can also be used in sound yoga, relaxation sessions, or concerts to create unique soundscapes and sound sequences.

Which gong mallet is right for my gong?

Which mallet is right for you depends mainly on the size of your gong and the sound you want to achieve. Different head sizes and surface textures stimulate different frequency ranges. The length and material of the handle also influence the sound. If you want to produce as many different timbres as possible, you can combine several gong mallets. You’ll find recommendations for the respective models in our product descriptions.

Which gong mallet should I buy?

If you’re looking to buy a gong scraper, you should pay particular attention to the size of your gong, the size of the scraper head, and the sound you’re looking for. Unlike gong mallets, small gong scrapers can also be played on large gongs. By combining different scrapers, you can produce a wide variety of frequencies and tonal characteristics. For versatile gong work, it can therefore be helpful to combine several gong scrapers.

What does a gong player sound like?

The sound of a gong scraper is typically long-lasting, melodious, and ethereal. The timbres vary depending on the type of mallet, playing style, and gong. Unlike with the “ strike ,” the sound is produced continuously as the mallet moves across the gong’s surface. Depending on the mallet, playing technique, and gong, bright, high-pitched tones or deep, intense sounds can be produced. Some sounds are reminiscent of the songs of whales or dolphins.

How do you use a gong scraper?

Hold the gong mallet loosely in your hand and place the head of the mallet on the surface of the gong. Then move it across the metal with even, gentle pressure. The resulting friction causes the gong to resonate. The longer you rub, the more powerfully and loudly the gong resonates. Too much pressure will stop the gong from vibrating. Therefore, vary the pressure, speed, and position of the mallet to find what works best and to produce different frequencies and timbres. It usually takes a few attempts to find the point at which the gong begins to resonate optimally.

In our guide, "How to Play the Gong: A Guide," you'll find more helpful tips and playing techniques.

What is the difference between a a friction mallet and a gong mallet?

A gong mallet is used to “ strike ” the gong. It produces a sound impulse that then resonates within the gong and slowly fades away. A gong scraper, on the other hand, is moved continuously across the surface with even pressure. The friction creates long-lasting, singing tones. Specific frequencies can be selectively emphasized.