I am looking at an Italian score of a work by Johann Strauss.

It calls for an instrument called Tamburo Piccolo, which I found "translated" as "side drum," although the part looks very much like a snare drum.

But suddenly, the line contains the word Sporen, for which I've not found any translation. I'm not sure whether it introduces a new instrument. It shouldn't at that point. The part consists solely of quarter notes at Allegro.

I assume that it is some instruction as to how the drum is played. But that could be incorrect.

The drum has been playing and has three measures rest. Then comes the "Sporen." That line changes back to Tamburo piccolo witn no intervening rest.

Any clue as to what the word means would be appreciated.

Hey Ken, Welcome.

I've never heard of this but I've done a wee google.

It seems to refer to spurs - the _link_s below think it refers to the bass drum spurs [?] perhaps it is cowboy spurs with the sound of the wee wheel being spun - maybe that's just silly :)

http://forum.classicalarchives.com/messages/2/6725.html?1129630800

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Classical-Music-2272/Der-Zigeunerbaron-percussion-instruments.htm

You're seemingly not the first to ask this question about this piece, sorry I'm no more help

Paul

Did a google and it seems that it actually is the jingling of "spurs". I'm assuming you're doing the Gypsy Baron Overture?

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&client=safari&rls=en-us&q=sporen%2C+johann+strauss&btnG=Search

Hope this helps.

-Sean