The vibraphone is a musical instrument that belongs to the percussion family. It consists of metal bars arranged like a keyboard, which are struck with mallets to produce sound. Below the bars, there are resonator tubes that amplify the vibrations, giving the instrument a rich, warm tone. The vibraphone is often used in jazz and classical music.
Invented in the early 20th century, the vibraphone is similar to the marimba but has a distinct sound due to its metal bars and resonators. It features a unique mechanism that allows for a vibrato effect, enhancing its musical expressiveness. Notable players include Milt Jackson and Gary Burton.