The drumset is a uniquely American instrument, a living blend of European, Asian, and African influences that come together to form a vital part of our shared musical heritage. Much more than merely a timekeeping device, the drum set has evolved over the past 150 years to become a ubiquitous piece of the American musical tradition.
The history of the drumset begins shortly after the Civil War. Most professional percussionists of this era were employed either in marching bands or classical symphonies. Instrumentation was limited to a bass drum, snare drum, and crash cymbals, all of which were considered their own individual instrument to be played by a separate player. However, the rise of vaudeville and live theater acts across the postwar nation created an increased need for both economy and spectacle.
The history of the drumset begins shortly after the Civil War. Most professional percussionists of this era were employed either in marching bands or classical symphonies. Instrumentation was limited to a bass drum, snare drum, and crash cymbals, all of which were considered their own individual instrument to be played by a separate player. However, the rise of vaudeville and live theater acts across the postwar nation created an increased need for both economy and spectacle.