In order to tune or tension your drums for the best possible sound, start out with no muffling. The exception to this rule would be the bass drum where virtually all drummers use some muffling to achieve either a low, full sound or a dry, “pop” type of effect. Some small-group jazz drummers use an 18″ bass drum with little or no muffling. The degree and type of muffling for the bass drum will vary depending upon the musical situation. Basic Tuning Tap at each tension screw one inch in from the rim of the drum. Keep adjusting the tension until you have approximately the same pitch all the way around. Test by tapping at each tension screw as you go. When the pitch is about the same all around, the head is in tune with itself. If you are having difficulty tuning tom-toms, it may be necessary to place […]

May 1984 Issue