Drums and Percussion
The rhythm section of the band is one of the most important. This section is responsible for keeping the band playing in time. There are two major types of percussion instruments: instruments that are tuned to a specific pitch like the bells or the timpani, and those which are not tuned to specific notes such as the snare drum.
The snare drum, sometimes called the side drum, gets its name from the eight or more wire strings that stretch across the bottom of the drum head. These wires are called the snares and give the drum its characteristic sound.
Snare drums are made up of a cylindrical shell of wood or metal with coverings on each head called the drum heads. Drum heads used to be made of calfskin but now are more commonly made from plastics. The drums heads are stretched across the openings so tight that they produce the sound when struck by a drum stick.
The marching snare drum differs just a little bit from the concert snare drum. The concert snare drum (pictured above) is made to be played in one location. The marching snare drum is made to be worn across the players chest on on a drum carrier. These drums are used in marching bands and whenever the drummer is not stationary. These drums are a little deeper and produce a different tone.
The bass drum is the largest drum in the band that is not tuned to a definite pitch. It is played from a standing position with a large felt mallet. In orchestras, the bass drum sits on a stand. In the marching band, the bass drum is worn by the player so that the player can play it while they march.
The modern version of the bells identically resembles the layout of the piano. These instruments are made up of a series of graduated steel bars and are played with a hard mallet.
The cymbals are one of the most dramatic instruments in the whole band. A simple cymbal crash can bring an audience to their feet if played at the right moment. Cymbals are generally made of large copper or brass conclave plates. When they are single, they are played with a mallet or stick. When equipped with handles and put in a pair, they are played by "crashing" them together.
Don't think it is all fun and games though. There are actually techniques to playing them and when played properly they can produce many effects beyond simple crashing. Two cymbals can be rubbed or slid together to create a quiet, sustained effect.
You can find other percussion instruments and accessories under our Percussion Accessories section or by clicking here.
