By Martin Algra

Customising your drum kit is a very personal thing and includes the way it looks, sounds, set-up and accessories. When I was not actually playing I would take every opportunity to watch and listen to other drummers and have seen some very weird and wonderful customisations. A particular favourite of mine was a very good band where the drum kit was actually attached to a scaffolding frame and included a 6 feet diameter J Arthur Rank Gong, which he only used for one particular number, but very effective.

It is quite common now to see a drum kit of gigantic proportions containing as many as 8 to 10 drums including two base drums and a multitude of cymbals, although I am of the opinion that a basic 4 or 5 piece drum set is quite adequate for most of us mere mortals.

Whatever your preference it is very important that you get the essentials right and they include the base drum pedal, the high-hat pedal and stand, the snare drum and cymbals.

Base drum pedals are a mechanical mechanism and should be as smooth, comfortable and as silent as possible (no squeaks) to allow you the greatest flexibility to eventually achieve those complicated bass drum rhythms. The same applies to the high-hat pedal and stand and I would recommend spending as much as you can afford on these two items, you won't regret it.

The snare drum will be the most used piece of your drum kit which can be made of wood or metal and should incorporate at least a 14 strand snare with adequate damping and adjustment. It is also a good idea to have a rough top skin which works well if you use brushes, ideal for jazz drums. A good solid and adjustable stand will add to your enjoyment.

The cymbals are also an essential, but often overlooked part of your drum kit and should wherever possible be of the best quality cast bronze such as Zildjian or Sabian . I would recommend at the very least 14" high-hat cymbals a 20" ride cymbal with bell top and 16" to 18" crash cymbal. Good solid adjustable stands with boom will help make the placement of your cymbals easier.

Finally don't forget the throne (stool) as you will be spending a great deal of time sitting down and you will want to be as comfortable as possible, so make sure it has adequate adjustment and is well padded.

The next step is think about accessories, but perhaps I will feature these in my next article.

If you want to see a truly great classical style drummer in action take a look at Buddy Rich at the Hague on YouTube.

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