Drum kit

Drum kit

A drum kit—also called a drum set, trap set (an abbreviation of the word, "contraption"), or simply drums—is a collection of percussion instruments, typically cymbals, which are set up on stands to be played by a single player, with drumsticks held in both hands, and the feet operating pedals that control the hi-hat cymbal and the bass drum. A drum kit consists of a mix of drums (categorized classically as membranophones, Hornbostel-Sachs high-level classification 2) and idiophones – most significantly cymbals, but can also include the woodblock and cowbell (classified as Hornbostel-Sachs high-level classification 1). In the 2000s, some kits also include electronic instruments (Hornbostel-Sachs classification 53). Also, both hybrid and entirely electronic drum kits are used.

The standard modern kit, for a right-handed player, includes as many as some or all of the components listed below.

• Snare drum - The snare is central to a drum kit and provides a sharp, staccato sound. The snare drum is mounted on a stand and is played with the drumsticks. The snare has snare wires on the bottom that give it its characteristic sound.
• Bass drum - Played with a foot-operated pedal, the bass drum produces a low, booming sound. It is the foundation of the drum kit's sound.
• Tom-tom drums - These are pitched drums without snares, used for melodic elements in drumming. They can be mounted on the bass drum or on separate stands.
• Floor tom - A larger version of the tom-tom, the floor tom stands on its own legs.
• Hi-hat - Consisting of two cymbals mounted on a stand, one atop the other, and operated by a foot pedal to open and close the cymbals. It produces a versatile range of sounds, from a crisp "chick" sound to a "sizzle".
• Cymbals - A standard set includes a ride cymbal and a crash cymbal. The ride cymbal provides a steady rhythm, while the crash cymbal is used for accents.

Drum kits are used in a variety of genres, including rock, jazz, country, and classical. The configuration and tuning of the drum kit can be highly personalized, with many drummers adding, removing, or replacing drums and cymbals, depending on their personal style, the music genre, and the venue.

The evolution of the drum kit has been significantly influenced by the technological advancements in music, changes in music styles, and the creativity of drummers. From the early jazz kits to the modern electronic kits, the drum kit has been a central element in music performance, providing the rhythmic foundation and dynamic support for a wide range of musical ensembles.