SAEDNEWS: The drum is a percussion instrument classified as a membrane or struck instrument. It consists of at least one drum shell, over which a skin or membrane is stretched to produce sound. In this section of SaedNews, we explore the history and features of this ancient instrument.
The drum is one of the most widely used percussion instruments in music, played professionally by many musicians. It’s also known as a drum kit, drums, or drum set, which includes various percussion instruments like drums and cymbals arranged together. The musician who plays it is called a drummer.
The drumhead is always circular, but the body shapes vary. In Western music, drums are usually cylindrical. Some drums have two heads (top and bottom), with a hole between them to amplify sound. Historically, drums were also used for communication and signaling.
1. Bass Drum: The largest drum with a low pitch, responsible for strong beats.
2. Snare Drum: Smaller drum with a sharp, staccato sound, often used for medium-strength beats.
3. Tom-Toms: Typically three drums mounted on the bass drum or floor, adding melodic rhythm.
4. Cymbals: Made of high-quality alloys to maintain sound over time.
Crash & Ride Cymbals: 46–56 cm, versatile for many rhythms.
China Cymbal: Produces bright, sharp tones, inspired by Chinese gongs.
Splash Cymbal: Smallest, used for special effects.
Hi-Hat: Two cymbals mounted together, played with a foot pedal or drumsticks.
The drum is a percussion instrument consisting of at least one stretched drumhead. It’s one of the oldest and most essential instruments in the world, with a design that has remained largely unchanged over centuries.
