The Man to Call When You Need a Cimbalom. (A What?)
Briefly

The Metropolitan Opera's rehearsal space is an unconventional venue for the cimbalom, a rare instrument in U.S. orchestras. Chester Englander, a leading cimbalom player, prepares to perform a piece by John Adams. He emphasizes the instrument's historical importance and his unique role in orchestras, as there are few cimbalom players nationwide. His preparation includes crafting custom mallets indicating his commitment to sharing the cimbalom's rich musical history with audiences in this new opera production.
The cimbalom, a large hammered dulcimer, is rarely played in orchestras in the U.S., and Chester Englander is one of just a few professionals here.
Englander prepares meticulously for rehearsals, even crafting his own mallets to play the instrument, demonstrating his deep commitment to his craft.
Read at The New Yorker
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