An Introduction to the Acoustic Drum Kit

Welcome Rockstars! Check out Nick’s introduction to the Acoustic Drum kit and how to set it up correctly.

FUN FACTS ABOUT THE DRUMS

• Drums were with us from the dawn of mankind. First as natural objects that we could hit, but later made as real drums, with membranes made of skins of animals.

• Modern configuration of drum sets become in use during first years of 20th century. Before that musical bands used more than one person to control drums in orchestras.

• Brushes that create softer drum sound were used in drumming ever since 1920s.

• Drums are the most important part of the rhythm section of any band.

• Many bands around the world are famous not only by their singers or composers, but by the style of their drummers.

• Popular drum manufacturer Ludwing became famous for their first product - foot-pedal for tarp drums.

• Modern shape of drum kit was formed during 1930s.

• Average drum sets has 5 pieces – bass drum, snare drum, two toms, and floor tom. Several cymbals are also used (crash, hi-hat and ride).

• Drummers have to use all four of their libs to play different drums.

• First medieval drum kits were created in 1700s, after drums became foundation of rhythm sections of large orchestras.

• Skills that every modern drummer needs to have are limb independence, eye-hand coordination and good sense of rhythm.

• Drums were extensively used in military, but this practice came to Europe only after Crusades in 12th century.

• Drumming burns more calories in half hour session than cycling, weight lifting and hiking.

• Drumming is the oldest musical activity.

• People of Africa and India used drums for long range communication between villages.

• Recreational playing of drums lowers stress hormones in our body.

• Drums can be classified as Acoustic, Electric and World (traditional) drums.