Tone and training: Teaching drum kit students on acoustic versus electronic instruments

Abstract

This article explores elements of tonal production in acoustic drums to support an argument for its use in the learning environment, as opposed to electronic drums. Aspects discussed include tonal production, range of dynamics, dynamics between components of the drum kit, articulation, specific sticks, specific types of strokes and stylistic elements. The argument focuses on describing how each of these factors work on acoustic drum kits, in what ways they differ on electronic kits and how auditory perception and training can work hand in hand with developing technical facility. Tonal quality is an important aspect for all musicians, irrespective of the instrument. An important thread in this discussion is tonal quality on the drum kit and how it is valuable in the process of training musical drummers.