Are you looking to learn more about drums and the names of different pieces that make up a drum set? Then, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we'll dive into some significant components of a typical drum set. So grab your sticks and tune up those cymbals – as we explore the names of the drums in a drum set!
Types of Drums
A drum set is an incredible and vital part of any band's sound, with each piece providing a unique function. The standard drum set consists of a bass drum, snare drum, floor tom, and two mounted toms.
Each adds a distinct flavor to the rhythm; for example, the bass drum provides a deep-settling low end to the overall mix of sound. The snare provides a bright, crisp accent that adds complexity to the underlying beat. The floor tom is another deeply resonating drum that serves as the backbone of the rhythm.
Meanwhile, two mounted toms reverberate higher pitches and add intricacy to the pattern becoming its own melody in the background. Put together this magical combination of pieces creates what we all know as “the beat” — necessary for getting everyone out onto the dance floor!
Read more: How to Start Playing Guitar: Beginner Chords Guide
Drum Name Parts
Knowing the different parts of a drum set can help you improve your drumming skills! In this section, you will find out more about the main parts of a drum set.
Snare Drum
A snare typically measures 6" in depth and 12" in diameter, and is composed of metal or wood. The "batter" side and the "resonant" head are the two skins that cover either side of the shell. A snare strainer, which has a "throw off" lever and a screw that can be tightened or loosened to change the tension of the wires, connects the snare wires. A three-armed bracket at the top of a metal stand holds the drum in place and may be adjusted to position the snare.
Kick Drum
The kick drum comes in smaller or larger sizes and has a diameter of about 22" and a depth of around 16". The note's warmth or brightness depends on the material of the shell and its diameter, which also alters the note's pitch. Two of the skins face the audience, one on each side of the shell. A clamping mechanism secures the foot pedal, and the spring can be tightened to change its position.
Hi-hats
The hi-hats are two sandwiched metal cymbals with a stand that has a diameter of roughly 14". They can be played with the attached foot pedal or drumsticks and feature a high-pitched, tinny sound. They are adaptable and an essential component of the equipment, offering a wide range of sounds.
Toms
Toms are components of the drum set that resemble bass drums but feature a batter and resonant skin as well. The frequency of the note they create is not as low as that of the bass drum, but they sound deeper than the snare and allow impacts to reverberate for a longer period of time. They are utilized to add fills in between tempo alterations or other musical sections. A distinct setup is needed for low toms and floor toms since low toms should be put on a cymbal stand and floor toms should be placed near the ground.
Ride Cymbal
The ride is typically 20" in diameter and sits on a metal stand above the floor tom on the right side of the drum set. It is constructed of an alloy of copper and zinc, and when struck with a drumstick, it emits either a loud tone or a low-pitched ping. Without the foot pedal, it should be played in the same way as the hi-hat. The kind of sticks used to strike the ride has an impact on the sound it makes as well; hardwood sticks produce a soft, quiet sound, while sticks with nylon tips emit a brighter ping.
Crash Cymbals
The 16"-diameter crash cymbals are an alloy of copper and tin. They create notes that sustain the longest and are louder and brighter than other cymbals. They can be used to tap out rhythms in a manner akin to a ride or hi-hat, improve fills, or heighten tension during a song's crescendo. It is a good idea to add a few more, in various sizes, after getting used to them in order to improve the fills and expand the sonic palette.
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How to Set Up a Drum Set
Setting up a drum set doesn't have to be an overwhelming task! With the right tools and these simple steps, you can get your kit ready for rocking in no time. Start with positioning the bass drum, then add your floor tom, rack toms, and snare. Make sure all pieces are firmly in place and don't forget about setting the height, so you'll be comfortable while playing.
Now it's time for tuning, which should always be done from lowest to highest tones. You'll want to keep your tension rods snug yet not overtightened as this could affect the sound of each drum later on. Lastly, attach any cymbals and hi-hats if desired, and take special care that they don't fall off once started playing. All that's left is to grab those sticks and start having fun!
