Joining the Drum Section: Snaredrum, Tenordrum or Bassdrum
Anyone who wants to join the drum section of our pipe band does not need knowledge of musical notation, but must have a sense of rhythm. We start right from the very beginning: from simple stroke techniques (basics) to rolls and flams.
The scores of the basic tunes are gradually taught. This usually takes about one year. Once the student knows the basic tunes well, he or she can join the band. Marching and command techniques are taught within the band by our Drum Major.
For more information you can contact us at our contact form
Snare drum
What do we need to start?
- A pair of sturdy drumsticks and a practice pad.
- Only after the basic tunes are well mastered will the snare drum be provided by the band. A pipe band snare drum is a Scottish drum (double-snared) and its sound cannot be compared to that of a concert band drum. Heavier drumsticks are used for the snare drum compared to those used in concert bands.
A sense of rhythm is essential. Drumming is about playing together, striking at exactly the same moment. A metronome is no luxury.
Time to practice: on lesson day we explain the scores, measures, tempo, etc., and play everything through. It is especially important to practice at home, preferably every day for 10 to 15 minutes if possible.
Tenordrum
The tenor drum can be compared to the “show element” of the band. Various movements with the sticks and the interplay with the pipe and drum section provide a fun, creative contribution to the group.
Knowledge of musical notation is not required, but it is certainly an advantage. What you mainly need is a sense of rhythm. The instructors will teach timing and note values during the lessons.
When joining the band, the member is provided with a tenor drum. Taking good care of it is essential.
What is expected of a tenor drummer?
- Learning to read, understand, and later also write scores
- Learning the basic scores
- Learning flourishes (stick movements)
- Playing the scores completely
- Marching and forming figures
Once you have mastered this sufficiently, you can join the group on Thursday evenings.
As rehearsals progress and you sufficiently master the repertoire, the first steps toward joining the band can be taken. When someone officially joins the band, our equipment manager will fully measure the new member in order to order a new uniform.
Bassdrum
In our band we currently have two permanent bass drummers who form the metronome of the band. If no bass drummer is available at a performance, someone from the tenor or snare drums may take on this role. So if you have a very good sense of rhythm and can keep time well, then bass drum might also be something for you.
Because the bass drum is a heavy instrument, we expect you to have good physical condition to maintain the beat during a parade. A bass drum can weigh up to 15 kg, so carrying it for several kilometers can be a serious strain on the back.
When learning the bass drum, you will learn to recognize the type of time signature by listening to the tune. Is it 3/4, 4/4, or 6/8? This will be taught gradually during the lessons.
If you would like more information about the bass drum or about lessons, you can contact us via the contact form.