Four 2-qt., four 1-qt. and four 1-pt. cans with different amounts of water to make a musical scale.
The more water and the larger the can the lower the note. The less water and the smaller the can, the higher the note.
Put three pieces of sliced cork on the bottom of each can to lift it above table top. Strike with cork hammer.
MARIMBA STICKS OR SLATS
Dry California Redwood or poplar slats are good. The longer or thicker they are, the lower the note or pitch. The shorter or thinner they are, the higher the note or pitch.
Cut shorter or thin down the slats until you have a musical scale.
Lay tuned slats across a cardboard box.
Sprinkle sawdust on them.
Strike lightly and rapidly in center. The sawdust will gather in two places. These are the spots where there is practically no vibration. Drive your nails through these spots in attaching to ropes.