Temple Blocks

Etymology and Alternative Spellings

French : Temple-blocs
German : Tempelblöcke

Construction

5 Pieces Temple Blocks

9 Pieces Temple Blocks

The Temple Blocks are available in different configurations. 5 blocks in two rows and 9 blocks in 3 rows are commonly used in different solo and ensemble pieces.
5 Pieces Temple Blocks tunings are A4-D5-E5-A5-D6
9 Pieces Temple Blocks tunings are C4-D4-G4-A4-D5-E5-A5-D6-E6

History

Temple blocks are percussion musical instruments that originated thousands of years ago in Eastern Asia. This device is still used during religious ceremonies in East Asia to this day. The temple block is a carved wooden hollow musical instrument with a huge slit.
In its original or traditional form, it’s oak fish shape is somewhat bulbous. The modern types of this instrument are rectangular in shape as well. Several blocks of different sizes are usually used together to produce a variety of pitches in temple blocks.

Manufacturers

Suzuki
Latin Percussion
Musser
Pearl
Ludwig
Adams
Grover Pro Percussion

See Also

Wood / Temple Blocks: Vic Firth Percussion 101
Wood Blocks and Temple Blocks