For band directors, percussion instructors, and percussionists of all ages, Simply Four is a clear-cut method on the fundamentals of four-mallet percussion technique! Now that this style of performance has become standard in modern percussion, never before have you had such a clearly defined resource to answer all your questions. This book is sure to take the fear out of playing with four mallets!

Included in this book:
• Step-by-step breakdown of the Stevens and Burton style grips.
• Technique-enhancing exercises.
• Progressive and inventive etudes.
• Tons of detailed photos.
• plus much more!!

Yamaha artist Gifford Howarth has received accolades for his methods demonstrated in hundreds of clinics and workshops across the globe. Now you can take these methods with you!

Click the product picture above for a look inside!

Each copy of Simply Four ships with a free DVD produced by Vic Firth Inc. On this DVD you'll get to see some live demonstrations by Howarth himself further illustrating his methods as well as lots of promotional material from Vic Firth Inc. View some samples here.

Hear Gifford Howarth play on his solo marimba CD, Rosewood Resonance. For more information on Howarth, and upcoming clinic dates, visit his website at giffordhowarth.com.

Simply Four Reviews

Ted Rounds Professor of Percussion Kent State University “Simply Four is exactly that: a simple way to learn to play with four mallets. The format couldn’t be any more clear- accurate descriptions of every detail with accompanying photographs showing how to hold the sticks and execute the strokes. The exercises and etudes are totally appropriate to each facet of the technique that is explained. Gifford Howarth covers the basic techniques of Steven’s method of movement and the “Burton” style with such clarity that anyone can use this book including band directors and percussion instructors. Beginning keyboard percussionists could use this book to teach themselves. There is an excellent list of suggested repertoire in the appendix culled from Howarth’s considerable experience in teaching percussionists of all skill levels. I strongly recommend that instructors and students get their hands on a copy of this book, and then get busy!” Gordon Stout Internationally renowned marimbist Professor of Percussion - Ithaca College, NY “Gifford Howarth is one of the most exciting and dynamic young marimbists and educators on the scene today!” Mark Ford Internationally renowned educator and marimbist Professor of Percussion - University of North Texas “Simply Four is a common sense approach to introducing marimba technique to younger players. The pictures are great and the musical notation is over-sized for beginning readers. Simply Four is a great starter book for four mallet marimba technique!” Steve Ulicny Band Director/Percussion Specialist Ft. Bend ISD, Sugar Land, TX “As a Band Director and Percussionist, its a pleasure to see an extremely well put together and comprehensive approach to performing with 4 mallets. Gifford has a lot to offer the world of percussion education. I look forward to seeing more of his materials.” Tony Steve Adjunct Prof. Percussion Studies Jacksonville University “I love the book. It has great concepts and I am so glad it covers both grips for kids in a practical and clear manner. The exercises, the short pieces and reminders of the what, how and why to practice a specific skill makes this a must-own book for any young student or the entering college level player that may be afraid of the mallet instruments. This is a text that solves a lot of problems under one roof and will get a lot of use in my studio.” Add your review here Your name: * Your message: * Maximum review length is 2000 characters Type the characters you see in the picture. (If you do not see any picture here, please enable images in your web browser options and refresh this page): Get a different code Add review