Jazz drum set, also known as drum kit or trap set, is a fundamental and vibrant instrument in the world of music, especially in jazz and various other genres. It’s not just a collection of drums and cymbals; it’s a dynamic tool that allows drummers to create rich rhythms and add depth to the music. In this article, we’ll explore the components, history, playing techniques, and the significance of the jazz drum set.
The Components of a Jazz Drum Set
Bass Drum
The bass drum, also called the kick drum, is the largest drum in the set. It’s played with a pedal using the drummer’s right foot. In jazz, bass drums usually come in sizes ranging from 18 to 22 inches in diameter. The smaller sizes, like 18 inches, produce a more focused and punchy sound, which is great for fast-paced jazz numbers. Larger bass drums, around 22 inches, offer a deeper and more resonant sound, suitable for a fuller, more laid-back jazz feel. When the drummer hits the bass drum, it provides the low-frequency foundation of the rhythm, setting the overall groove.
Snare Drum
The snare drum is a crucial part of the jazz drum set. It has a distinct sound due to the set of wires (snares) on the bottom head. When the top head is struck, the vibrations transfer to the snares, creating that sharp, crackling sound we associate with the snare. Snare drums in jazz typically have a diameter between 12 and 14 inches and a depth of 3 to 8 inches. A shallower depth, like 3 to 5 inches, gives a brighter and more cutting sound, perfect for styles like bebop where the snare needs to stand out in a fast-paced rhythm. Deeper snare drums, around 6 to 8 inches, produce a warmer and more mellow sound, which can be great for traditional or smooth jazz.
Tom-Toms
Tom-toms are the cylindrical drums in the set. They come in different sizes and are usually mounted on the bass drum or on stands. There are usually three to seven tom-toms in a jazz drum set. Smaller tom-toms, with diameters around 8 to 10 inches, produce higher-pitched sounds. They are often used for creating quick, energetic fills in the music. Medium-sized tom-toms, with diameters of 12 to 14 inches, have a mid-range sound and can be used for adding texture and variety to the rhythm. The largest tom-tom, often called the floor tom, has a diameter of 14 to 16 inches and a deeper, more resonant sound. It helps to fill out the lower mid-range of the drum set’s sound spectrum.
Cymbals
Hi-Hat Cymbals
The hi-hat cymbals are a pair of cymbals mounted on a stand with a pedal. The drummer uses their left foot to control the opening and closing of the hi-hats. When closed, hitting the hi-hats with a drumstick produces a sharp, staccato sound. When open, the sound is more sustained and washier. Hi-hat cymbals are commonly 13 or 14 inches in diameter. They are used to keep the basic rhythm in jazz, often playing on the off-beats to add a sense of syncopation.
Crash Cymbals
Crash cymbals are used to create accents and add excitement to the music. They come in various sizes, typically from 16 to 19 inches in diameter. Smaller crash cymbals, like 16 inches, produce a brighter and more focused sound, which can be used for quick, sharp accents. Larger crash cymbals, around 19 inches, have a more complex and sustained sound, great for big, powerful accents during solos or climax moments in a jazz piece.
Ride Cymbal
The ride cymbal is usually the largest cymbal in the set, with diameters ranging from 20 to 24 inches. It has a distinct, bell-like sound when struck in the center and a more sustained, shimmering sound when the edge is hit. The ride cymbal is used to establish a steady rhythm, often playing a pattern that helps drive the music forward. In jazz, the ride cymbal pattern can be very intricate and is an important part of the drummer’s rhythmic vocabulary.
The History of the Jazz Drum Set
The origins of the jazz drum set can be traced back to the late 19th century. After the American Civil War, African-American musicians combined various percussion instruments they found, such as military drums and cymbals, to create a new form of percussion setup. In the 1840s, the use of foot pedals began to emerge, allowing drummers to play multiple instruments simultaneously. By the 1870s, the use of suspended cymbal pedals became more common.
In the early 20th century, in the vibrant music scene of New Orleans, the modern jazz drum set started to take shape. Jazz bands needed a way to keep a strong rhythm while also allowing for individual expression. The drum set evolved to meet these needs, with drummers using it to play complex rhythms and solos. Over the years, as jazz music developed through different styles like ragtime, swing, bebop, and cool jazz, the drum set also continued to evolve. New cymbal types were invented, and the sizes and configurations of drums were adjusted to suit the changing musical styles.
Playing Techniques for the Jazz Drum Set
Basic Hand and Foot Coordination
One of the fundamental skills for a jazz drummer is hand and foot coordination. The right foot is used to play the bass drum, while the left foot controls the hi-hat pedal. The hands are responsible for playing the snare drum, tom-toms, and cymbals. Drummers need to be able to play different rhythms with each limb simultaneously. For example, a common pattern is the right hand playing the snare on beats 2 and 4, the left hand playing the ride cymbal on the other beats, the right foot hitting the bass drum on beats 1 and 3, and the left foot opening and closing the hi-hat in a syncopated pattern. This requires a lot of practice to develop the muscle memory and independence between the limbs.
Different Strokes
Single Stroke
The single stroke is the most basic drumstick stroke. It involves hitting the drum head with one up-and-down motion of the stick. In jazz, single strokes are used for playing fast, straight rhythms, such as in a bebop solo.
Double Stroke
The double stroke consists of two consecutive strokes with the same stick in quick succession. This technique is useful for creating more complex rhythms and adding speed and fluidity to the drumming. It’s often used in jazz fills and solos to showcase the drummer’s technical skill.
Rolls
Rolls are a series of rapid strokes that create a continuous, sustained sound. There are different types of rolls, such as the single-paradiddle roll and the double-paradiddle roll. Rolls are used to add dynamics and excitement to the music, especially during build-ups or intense solo sections in jazz.
Using Cymbals Effectively
Cymbals play a crucial role in jazz drumming. The hi-hat can be used in various ways, such as playing a steady pattern on the closed position to keep the time, or opening it on certain beats to add accents. Crash cymbals are typically struck for emphasis, either on their own or in combination with other drums. The ride cymbal’s pattern can vary depending on the style of jazz. In swing jazz, the ride cymbal often has a characteristic “chick” sound when the stick hits the edge of the cymbal in combination with a foot movement on the hi-hat pedal.
The Role of the Jazz Drum Set in Different Music Styles
Jazz
In jazz, the drum set is more than just a timekeeper; it’s an integral part of the improvisational nature of the music. The drummer interacts with the other musicians, responding to their solos and adding their own creative ideas. In a jazz combo, the drum set provides the rhythm section’s backbone, working with the bassist to create a solid groove. During solos, the drummer can use the drum set to add accents, fills, and dynamic changes to enhance the soloist’s performance. Different jazz styles require different approaches to playing the drum set. For example, in swing jazz, the emphasis is on creating a swinging rhythm that makes people want to dance. In bebop, the drumming is often more complex and fast-paced, with the drummer using intricate patterns and solos.
Rock
In rock music, the jazz drum set also plays a vital role. The bass drum and snare drum are used to create a powerful, driving rhythm that forms the foundation of the song. Rock drummers often use larger cymbals to create a bigger, more aggressive sound. The tom-toms are used for fills and adding variety to the rhythm. In rock, the drum set is sometimes used to create a wall of sound, especially in stadium rock performances. The drummer’s ability to play loud and with energy is crucial in this genre.
Pop
In pop music, the drum set is used to create catchy rhythms that are easy to sing along to. Pop drumming often features simple, repetitive patterns that are easy to remember. The cymbals are used to add sparkle and energy to the music. The drum set in pop music is also used to provide a sense of continuity between different sections of the song, such as the verses and choruses.
Choosing a Jazz Drum Set
When choosing a jazz drum set, there are several factors to consider. First, the quality of the drums and cymbals is important. Look for drums with good shells made from high-quality materials like maple or birch for a warm and resonant sound. Cymbals should have a good balance of sound and durability. Second, consider your budget. Jazz drum sets can range from affordable beginner sets to high-end professional models. Third, think about the size and portability of the set. If you plan to gig frequently, a smaller, more portable set might be more suitable.Finally, try out different sets before you buy. Listen to the sound of the drums and cymbals, and see how they feel to play. This will help you find a set that suits your playing style and musical needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the jazz drum set is a versatile and exciting instrument that has played a significant role in the development of many music genres. Its components, history, playing techniques, and role in different styles make it a fascinating subject for musicians and music lovers alike. Whether you’re a beginner looking to start playing or a seasoned drummer exploring new aspects of the instrument, the world of the jazz drum set has something to offer.
Related Topics:
