What is a characteristic of the traditional cross grip for mallet playing?

The characteristic of the traditional cross grip for mallet playing is that the first mallet is positioned between the index and middle fingers. This grip is designed to facilitate a natural and fluid playstyle, allowing for greater agility and control while striking the instruments. By positioning the mallet in this manner, players can effectively leverage their finger movement to achieve variation in touch and articulation, which is essential in nuanced performances. This grip also promotes better alignment of the hands and wrists, contributing to overall technique and preventing strain.

In contrast, the other descriptions do not accurately capture the specifics of the traditional cross grip. For example, holding the first mallet between the thumb and index fingers does not align with the cross grip's design, as this would resemble more of a traditional grip rather than the specific cross grip technique. Additionally, while the cross grip offers support, its primary characteristic revolves around the specific positioning of the mallets for optimal performance rather than comparing to other grip techniques. Lastly, the mention of the second mallet being held with the thumb tucked does not pertain directly to the defining aspect of the cross grip, which focuses on the placement of the first mallet.