Percussion Instruments

Percussion

Percussion is more than just hitting things with sticks. It may be the oldest form of instrument but it's an instrument family that has grabbed the future without letting go of the best of the past.

Drums and Drumming

When people say percussion, the first thought is the drum. From a simple pair of bongos to a full up kit, drums are everywhere. Despite the wide range in size and sound, all drums are basically the same. Stretch a skin across a cylinder and there you go. Some drums are open at the bottom, while others are closed off. Both are still drums, whether they are played with your hands, a foot pedal, drumsticks, or even brushes. There's a whole world of drums to explore.

Taking Percussion in Hand

Some people forget, but there's a whole range of hand percussion instruments as well as just drums. Everything from tambourines to rattles all count as percussion instruments. With tambourines you can either shake them, or if they have a closed top you can strike them like a drum. Rattles and shakers are often common in indigenous folk music, as they are some of the easiest instruments to make.

The Electronic Revolution

Just like guitars, percussion instruments aren't immune to the lure of electrons. Electronic drums and drum kits have become ever more popular as their capabilities have increased. Electronic instruments are smaller and more portable than their acoustic cousins. They do need power, but that's rarely a problem at a venue. Most electronic drums have multiple sensors in the pads, and a whole range of sounds and effects in the trigger module. They even feel like drums under the sticks.

Parts and Accessories

Whether you are playing a high end kit from Pearl or Ludwig, or something a lot simpler, you should always consider parts and accessories. Marching bands need slings, other drums may need stands. It never hurts to grab extra drumsticks or brushes, either. Grab a spare set of heads at the same time, you never know when you might need them. You can't play a full kit while standing, so make sure your stool is comfortable. Drummers spend a lot of time on one.