The first working snare release with a lever mechanism was patented in 1889. The invention was that of Ellwood E. Fry of Brooklyn, New York
Read more1965 Ludwig "Superbeat" in oyster blue pearl
This is one of those kits that you dream of finding and it actually found me. I run an ad on the local Craig’s List looking for vintage drums. One day I get an email from an older gentleman telling me about this kit he may want to sell......
Read more1929-30 Ludwig Ralph Smith Drum Outfit
In my relentless pursuit of vintage drums, I came across an interesting Ebay listing: “Early 1900's Vintage Ludwig Drums, Black Beauty Snare, Zildjian, Zenjian Cymbals”. While the pictures weren’t very sharp, I could definitely see a 1920s-1930s engraved Ludwig Black Beauty in what appeared to be the original case. There were four cymbals, a bass drum and clearly a bunch of assorted hardware, all in De Luxe finish. Normally, I just collect snare drums but in this instance, I decided to make an exception. So I pulled the trigger.
Read moreBlood Sports and Game Cocks
Completely constructed of thick cut ash, this sturdy relic from the birth period of our American nation is wonderfully preserved, as should be in the case of such an early, historical piece. Formally of a New England estate, this very unique drum must have been recognized for the role it must have played during a very special time in history, and thus carefully protected from the destructiveness of time and abuse.
Read more1970s Ludwig congas, sky blue pearl
The drums I have chosen from my collection to show you this month is a cool set of Ludwig Congas.They are not the best sounding congas you will ever hear, but they are definitely the coolest. I have always liked the conical congas like Ricky played on the "I Love Lucy Show".
Read moreMartin Fleetfoot Pedal - the one that started it all. Martin > Camco > Gretsch > DW
The Martin Fleetfoot spawned the Camco pedal. Camco made the same pedal for Gretsch, inscribing the footboard w Floating Action. Drum Workshop purchased the Camco tools and dies. Then there is the Tama Camco pedal, copied in spirit if not entirely in the flesh.
Read more1934 Slingerland 5x14 sparkling green/artgold Artist model
Slingerland’s Sparkling Green finish was first introduced around 1934. I have seen my share of Sparkling Green/Green Sparkle finishes from the 1930s and this drum shell is one of the cleanest versions that has ever come my way. “Cancer free”. The finish cleaned up and polished up nicely. The solid maple shell interior is very clean. The cloud badge is also clean with a tight grommet.
Read moreBuddy Rich: The Beat Goes On - Featuring Gregg Potter and Cathy Rich
Gregg Potter and Cathy Rich continue the legacy of Buddy Rich's music.
Read moreMystery: What drum shop does Frank Zappa's "Drum Shop" art collage depict?
An episode of the series "History Detectives" featuring Cal Schenkel, Bobby and Gail Zappa investigating whether a Collage painting is or isn't by Frank Zappa. Original broadcast hosted on video.pbs.org/video/2253617192
In addition to being the musical genius and political dissident that we all know, Frank was also an artist (and a drummer). One particular piece he created was lost then found and an investigation by PBS turned up some surprising ties to the drum shop world.
Read moreCanopus introduces reproduction of the vintage Ludwig baseball bat muffler
Canopus Drums has been very innovative in new designs of instruments, hardware and parts. Now their newest offering is a much needed improvement on an old classic- the CIM-20 baseball bat internal muffler. It is an exact copy of the baseball bat but with new features. Not So Modern Drummer carries all Canopus products.
Read moreA first hand account of Ringo's auction of drums and personal items that fetched over 9 million dollars
I was prized when Ringo picked up the sticks and started playing the kit. I was standing a few feet in front of him with an astonished look on my face. He began playing the beginning of Come Together and Ringo laughed when he saw me smiling and said “You caught that.” to which I said “Yes I did.” The last time Ringo played that kit as a Beatle was 51 years and nine months ago, truly a magical and historical moment.
Read moreBrush with greatness; I played the Sistine Chapel set on a gig!
This past weekend my band shared the stage with another band at a local festival. The drummer for the other band had the drum set I knew as Bobby Rock's "Sistine Chapel" Peavey drum set. I could hardly believe my eyes.
Read moreBuying Custom, Part 2: Choosing a builder
If you’ve decided that custom drums are right for your needs (see my previous article) it’s time for a critical next step: selecting the builder to work with. It’s not always easy. There are a lot of custom builders out there, with new ones entering – and other leaving – the marketplace every year. So making wise choices means doing your homework.
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Reflections On Shelly Manne: chapter 4
NSMD's David Barsalou asked internationally recognized drummers Claire Arenius, Marko Djordjevic, and Dave DiCenso to share their ideas and opinions on the following quote attributed to Shelly Manne: "the ride beat is the easiest and the most difficult thing a drummer will ever play".
Read more1970s Ludwig white marine pearl Big Beat kit
"Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow." I really don't wish for snow in the south. We are really not equipped too handle snow. A small snow storm will shut us right down in Georgia. I do like "the white stuff", though. Not the snow but white drums.
Read moreA Night of the Snare
Seven snare drums were recorded by some real pro Chicago drummers, David Moss and Larry Beers. Tools recorded the sound on his rare Neve 8078 console
Read moreThrow Off vs. Strainer - which is it?
"I've heard a throw off referred to as a strainer? Why? Ahem.....from one who has spent way too much time studying and being baffled the antiquities of membranophones..... In my opinion, a strainer and a throw off are two different terms describing two different things, but are used interchangeably to describe the throw off mechanism.
Read moreBrady Drums announces closing
It is with sadness that we announce our decision to close Brady Drums.
Read moreThe most expensive drumhead in the world!
Valencia, CA- On November 7, 2015, the drumhead from the Beatles’ Ed Sullivan debut was sold at Julien’s auction in Beverly Hills, CA, for $2.125 million.
Read moreSlingerland 30s drum set for sale in Minneapolis
I've got my dad's old drum kit in our basement and am not sure what to do with it as my wife and i are downsizing. Can you tell from these photos if it has any monetary value? (I've also got an extra cymbal.) If so, how would you suggest i put it on the market?