Vibes
Vibes
is the common abbreviation for the Vibraphone.
It is a percussive, but tuned, instrument, with metal bars arranged like a
keyboard, but struck with hammers. A resonating tube is hung under each
bar, which amplifies the sound. Thus far, it has considerable resemblance
to the xylophone and
marimba.
What distinguishes it is its vibrato effect (a wavering of the pitch),
which is generated by an electric motor which rapidly opens and closes the tops
of the resonating tubes.
The vibraphone was invented about 1920, and it is
mainly used in jazz ensembles, popular orchestras, and bands.