Drums and percussion instruments form the rhythmic backbone of virtually every musical genre. A standard drum kit includes a bass drum, snare drum, tom-toms, hi-hat, and cymbals, but the world of percussion extends far beyond these essentials to include countless instruments from cultures around the globe.
Acoustic Drum Kits
Acoustic drums provide the classic feel and response that many drummers prefer. A typical five-piece kit includes a bass drum, snare drum, two mounted toms, and a floor tom, complemented by a hi-hat and various crash and ride cymbals.
Shell materials significantly affect tone - maple shells offer warmth and versatility, birch provides punch and clarity, while mahogany delivers vintage warmth. Consider shell sizes, bearing edges, and hardware quality when selecting a kit. Entry-level kits from reputable brands offer excellent value for beginners.
Electronic Drum Kits
Electronic drums have revolutionised practice and recording, offering silent practice options and endless sound possibilities. Modern electronic kits from brands like Roland provide remarkably realistic playing feel through mesh heads and sophisticated sound modules.
Key considerations include pad sensitivity and response, module features (number of sounds, connectivity options), and expandability. Electronic drums are ideal for apartment dwellers, home recording, and situations where acoustic drums aren't practical.
Cymbals
Cymbals are essential to any drum setup, providing accents, texture, and rhythmic patterns. Basic categories include hi-hats (for time-keeping), crashes (for accents), and rides (for patterns and bell sounds). Zildjian, Sabian, Meinl, and Paiste are leading cymbal manufacturers.
Cymbals are made from bronze alloys, with B20 (80% copper, 20% tin) being the traditional choice for professional cymbals. Consider weight, diameter, and finish when selecting cymbals - each affects volume, sustain, and tonal character.
Snare Drums
The snare drum is often considered the heart of the kit, providing the backbeat that drives most music. Snares vary in depth, diameter, shell material, and snare wire configuration, each affecting the drum's character.
Metal snares (steel, brass, aluminium, bronze) tend to be brighter and more cutting, while wood snares (maple, birch, oak) offer warmer, more complex tones. Many drummers collect multiple snares for different musical applications.
World Percussion
Beyond the drum kit lies a vast world of percussion instruments from global musical traditions. Congas and bongos bring Afro-Cuban rhythms, djembes deliver West African intensity, cajons provide acoustic percussion for unplugged settings, and frame drums connect to ancient traditions.
Hand percussion instruments like shakers, tambourines, and claves add texture and colour to any musical arrangement. These instruments are excellent additions for drummers looking to expand their rhythmic vocabulary.
Hardware and Accessories
Quality hardware is crucial for reliable performance. Drum thrones, kick pedals, hi-hat stands, cymbal stands, and mounting hardware all affect playability and durability. Double-braced hardware offers superior stability for heavy hitters.
Essential accessories include drumsticks (available in various sizes, weights, and tip shapes), practice pads for quiet practice, drum keys for tuning, and protective cases for transport.
