“About the triple-second; yes, Rudolph came up with the Idea when we wanted to extend the range of the double seconds so we could get lower notes. But he went even further, and came up with the Quadrophonics using four drums and even a wider range, to play melodies and harmonies. So that took the place of the triple-second. Even though I still have my set and use them when I am doing recording sessions. I think D’Radoes uses them; also Despers in NY - But Desperadoes in Trini does not use them.
“Rudolph was always a creative person searching for sounds on the steel pans: Triple, Quads, Six pans, Tenor Bass, Nine Bass and the Twelve Bass. There used to be a Triple cellos, that bands used to use - which Rudolph used to play in Despers before taking over the band. I think that give him the idea to come up with the triple-second. The Triple cellos was Ellie Mannette’s creation.
“That’s what I remember.” - Robert Greenidge
Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - The triple-second was never featured in Desperadoes Steel Orchestra. Nevertheless, it is one of the signature voices and achievements of the late, great Rudolph Charles. The instrument was a personal favorite of the late, great Grammy award-winner Ralph MacDonald. It was featured often with Robert Greenidge playing it on MacDonald’s albums.
Robert Greenidge on
Triple-second made by Rudolph Charles
Robert
Greenidge
with
his
Triple-second
Robert Greenidge on Triple-second made by Rudolph Charles
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