Instruments are classified according to their methods of tone production. These categories are referred to as families. The brass family of instruments (such as trumpets and trombone) are performed by buzzing into a mouthpiece, while woodwind instruments (including saxophone and…
What are drum and percussion mallets used for? What is the difference between a stick and a mallet? The difference between sticks and mallets is simple: Drumsticks are generally tapered toward the tip, allowing the stick to rebound off the…
Drummers play in all types of footwear. Some don’t use footwear at all. Instead, they play in socks or bare feet. It seems that there is a growing trend of drummers playing sans shoes. Is there a benefit to playing…
Drummers often ask how they can make their drumsticks last longer. The wood type, tip material, playing technique, drumming surface, and storage environment are all factors that affect the longevity of a drumstick. Wood Choice Drumsticks can be manufactured using…
How Many Cymbals Should A Drummer Have? Drummers often ask, How many cymbals should I have?” Drummers should have a pair of hi-hats, a ride cymbal, and at least one crash cymbal. Other cymbals can be added to enhance the…
Many students ask the question, “How long will it take until I get good at drumming?” The answer to the question depends upon a number of factors including: These steps will be discussed in detail in this article. Every drummer…
How should you clean drums and cymbals? Cleaning and Maintenance Tips Drummers often wonder how to clean their instruments. Drums and cymbals may be cleaned with common household products, automotive cleaners, and cleansers specifically made for cymbals. It is important…
Many drummers sign up for lessons and just assume that their instructor is qualified. This assumption is understandable. Lessons often take place at music stores or commercial lesson facilities. Simply being associated with this type of business adds an air…
A common question asked by students is, “Do drum kits come with cymbals?” Most drum sets do not come with cymbals. Professional and intermediate-level kits do not include cymbals. Most entry-level drum kits do not come with cymbals. Some manufacturers,…
A commonly asked question is, “Can I learn drums if I do not own a drum kit?” The answer is yes, there are a number of ways to practice without drums. Aspiring drummers can start learning with just a practice…
Drummers often ask, “Can I learn to play the drums if I live in an apartment or townhome?” The answer is yes. Drummers can certainly practice in an apartment if they take advantage of drum mutes, mesh heads and other…