The Birth of the Bass Drum Pedal (Early 1900s)

The invention of the bass drum pedal in the early 1900s marks a pivotal moment in drumming history. Before this innovation, drummers were limited to playing multiple drums simultaneously. The bass drum pedal, pioneered by William F. Ludwig, revolutionized drum setups and playing techniques. Enabling drummers to use their feet to play the bass drum opened up new possibilities for rhythm and coordination. This advancement not only enhanced musical complexity but also led to the development of the modern drum kit. The bass drum pedal’s introduction is a crucial example of how a single innovation can transform a musical landscape. Its impact on drumming techniques and kit configurations continues to be felt today, illustrating the profound influence of technological advancements on music.

The Snare Drum Stand Revolution (1920s)

The evolution of the snare drum stand in the 1920s significantly impacted drum kit setups and playability. Before the advent of adjustable snare drum stands, drummers faced challenges with positioning and stability, limiting their performance capabilities. The introduction of adjustable stands allowed for a more ergonomic setup, enhancing comfort and technique during play. This development improved the physical ease of playing and contributed to the versatility of drumming styles. The ability to adjust the height and angle of the snare drum enabled drummers to integrate more complex rhythms and techniques into their performances. As a result, the snare drum stand revolution played a crucial role in diversifying music genres, illustrating the importance of ergonomic design in musical innovation.

The Introduction of Mylar Drumheads (1950s)

The shift to Mylar drumheads in the 1950s marked a significant technological advancement in drumming. Before Mylar, drumheads were traditionally made from animal skins, which varied in tone and durability due to weather and wear. Mylar, a synthetic material, offers consistency, durability, and a more comprehensive range of tonal possibilities. Introduced by Remo Inc., Mylar drumheads quickly became standard due to their ability to withstand various climatic conditions without losing tone or quality. This innovation significantly broadened the genres and styles of music that drummers could explore, providing a stable and reliable sound platform. Mylar drumheads’ introduction underscores the impact of material science on musical instruments, highlighting how technological advancements can enhance musical expression and creativity.

The Electronic Drum Kit (1970s)

The introduction of electronic drum kits in the 1970s was a groundbreaking innovation that expanded the boundaries of music. Initially developed by Graeme Edge and further popularized by brands like Roland and Alesis, electronic drums transformed the acoustic landscape. These kits allowed drummers to produce a wide array of sounds that were not possible with traditional setups, from synthesized beats to digital samples. This versatility made electronic drums a pivotal tool in developing new music genres and expanding existing ones, offering artists unprecedented creative freedom. The advent of electronic drum kits demonstrated the potential of integrating technology with traditional instruments, paving the way for a new era of musical experimentation and genre evolution.

Double Bass Pedal Innovation (Late 20th Century)

The development of the double bass pedal in the late 20th Century revolutionized drumming techniques, especially in metal and progressive rock genres. Before this invention, achieving rapid, thunderous bass drum sequences required two separate bass drums, limiting the setup’s flexibility and increasing the physical space needed. The double bass pedal enabled drummers to produce intricate and fast-paced rhythms using a single bass drum, greatly expanding the range of musical expression and technical complexity.

This innovation not only enhanced the musicality and dynamism of drumming performances but also influenced the evolution of drum kit configurations, making them more compact and versatile. As a result, drummers could explore new creative possibilities and genres, pushing the limits of speed and coordination. The double bass pedal became a staple for drummers seeking to elevate their technique and impact within their music, illustrating the profound effect of mechanical innovation on artistic expression.

Drum Triggers and MIDI Technology (1980s-Present)

The integration of drum triggers and MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) technology from the 1980s onwards has significantly shaped modern drumming and music production. Drum triggers, devices attached to acoustic drums to convert hits into electronic signals, combined with MIDI, allow for digital sounds and sample triggering. This hybrid setup enabled drummers to seamlessly blend acoustic and electronic elements, opening up vast new creative possibilities.

This technology has been pivotal in live performance settings, where drummers can enhance their acoustic drum sounds with layers of electronic samples or switch between different soundscapes mid-performance. Studio recordings have facilitated a previously unattainable level of precision and versatility, allowing for the programming of complex, nuanced drum parts that maintain a human feel.

The use of drum triggers and MIDI technology underscores the evolving relationship between traditional musicianship and digital innovation, offering drummers an expansive toolkit for expression and creativity. This blend of acoustic and digital has not only transformed drumming practices but also contributed to the evolution of music genres, demonstrating the transformative power of technology in the arts.

High-tech Cymbal Alloys and Manufacturing Techniques (Late 20th Century)

Cymbal manufacturing techniques advanced and high-tech alloys were introduced in the late 20th Century, significantly improving the quality and diversity of cymbal sounds available to drummers. Traditionally, cymbals were made from a limited range of bronze alloys. Still, modern manufacturing has introduced materials like B20 bronze, proprietary alloys, and even processes like laser shaping and hammering to create a broad spectrum of tones.

These innovations in materials and manufacturing have allowed for cymbals that offer a broader dynamic range, improved durability, and a variety of sonic characteristics that can suit any musical style. Drummers can now choose from cymbals that provide not just different pitches. Still, they also have unique textures and decay characteristics, greatly expanding their expressive palette.

Developing high-tech cymbal alloys and manufacturing techniques represents a significant leap forward in drum kit customization and sound personalization. This progression has benefitted drummers and enriched the sound of music ensembles, demonstrating the critical role of materials science and engineering in the evolution of musical instruments and performance.

Sound Dampening and Silent Practice Gear (21st Century)

The introduction of sound dampening and silent practice gear in the 21st Century has addressed one of drummers’ most significant challenges: the need to practice without disturbing others. Innovations such as mesh drum heads, low-volume cymbals, and silent pads allow the realistic feel of playing a drum kit while significantly reducing the volume produced. Additionally, electronic drumming headphones enable drummers to hear themselves play with music tracks without external noise.

These developments have been crucial for urban and apartment-dwelling drummers, enabling them to practice at any hour without noise complaints. Beyond the practical benefits, this gear has also opened up new avenues for learning and creativity, allowing drummers to practice more frequently and with immediate feedback via electronic modules or recording software.

Silent practice gear represents a merging of acoustic realism and digital convenience, making drumming accessible to more people and facilitating consistent practice. This innovation underscores the importance of addressing practical concerns through technology, ensuring the art of drumming continues to thrive in diverse living environments.

Looking Ahead: The Future Beat of Drumming Innovation

The evolution of drumming highlights the merging of technology and creativity, pushing music’s boundaries. Innovations, from the bass drum pedal to silent practice gear, have solved challenges and opened new artistic avenues.

These milestones show the dynamic relationship between drummers and technology, fueling creativity and new genres. The future promises more opportunities for exploration.

Drumming’s history reflects music’s evolving nature, driven by technological advancements. As drummers experiment with new technologies, innovation will continue to shape music, ensuring drumming’s vitality in our musical landscape.

 
In this video, I explain how I use Ableton Live’s Chain Selector to automatically load drum samples on to my electronic pad when I launch a song.

1. A&F Drum Co

If you haven’t heard of A&F Drum Co, you must not be paying attention. “Simple Design, Practical Application, Brilliant Sound…these are the pillars that Antoun & Family Drum Co. (A&F) is built upon.” The genius behind A&F Drum Co is that they draw from the rich history of drum building and manufacturing to further explore and innovate ideas that big box drum makers have overlooked, either due to cost constraints, or because of the perceived lack of market demand. Ramy will not stop until he has perfected all things drums. A&F is changing the way drum manufacturers think about their products; it’s no longer acceptable to make small incremental improvements on drum designs, you have to completely change the game, and that’s exactly what A&F is doing.

2. C&C Custom Drums

Bill Cardwell is a custom drum building legend. He and his son Jake create some of the most classy looking custom drums on the market. Bill started making drums in a 6×12″ room in the back of his drum and guitar retail store about 20 years ago. Their journey has been long and difficult, but they are now one of the most trusted and revered names in the drum industry.

3. Koenig Custom Drum Company

These guys developed the Corian-Granite snare drum. I have never heard a granite snare, but I have to give them props for doing something completely different from most “custom” drum companies.

4. SJC Custom Drums

One of the most innovative custom drum companies out there. Known for their “Butcher Hoops”. Owned by two brothers that are 25 and 23 years old.

5. Truth Custom Drums

Great looking drums, Hybrid drum sets blow my mind.

6. Risen Custom Drums

They have some pretty sweet drums, and a LIFETIME warranty on their drums. Their Glo Kit is one of my favorites.

:)

At the start of each lesson, I try to get to know my students better by asking them random questions about themselves, their week, and much of the time the focus ends up being on the topic of food (I enjoy talking and hearing about desserts).

While in the studio one night I found myself having a spirited discussion with one of my students about the painter Bob Ross.

I was genuinely surprised to learn this 15-year-old student was aware of Bob Ross’s show “The Joy of Painting” as it played regularly on TV when I was a teenager back in the 80’s – twenty-five years before this young man was even born.

The first thing my student enthusiastically blurted out was “happy accidents!”

His comment inspired a way-too-long comparison of painting on canvas with creating rhythms. We talked about how creativity often happens by accident, and it’s up to us as musicians to recognize the potential usefulness of a “drumming mistake”. We also talked about intentionally and tastefully implementing these newly found nuggets while participating in future musical adventures.

I can vividly recall being a teen observing as Bob Ross unintentionally dripped a blob of paint onto his canvas, only to turn it into an interesting rock, another distinct tree, or some other beautiful form of nature. And best of all he made it all appear so effortless!

“We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents.” – Bob Ross

I’ll sometimes have parents ask about the drumming potential of their child(ren).

In my experience, there seems to be two general categories of students: those who begin playing already possessing an easiness with their understanding and application of drumming concepts (this was not me when I started), and those who seek to gain an understanding of drumming through persistence and tenacity (I definitely fell into this latter category).

Both types of ability can produce rhythmic talent. Wherever one may land on the spectrum, the most important ingredients that you need when learning to play the drums include being dedicated to practicing; having a willingness to persevere when it gets difficult, and to have the age-old concept of “grit” that shows up as determination.

Our talents are something that needs constant renewal and continual blossoming. It’s only when we stop doing/learning that our talent becomes stagnant.

“Talent is a pursued interest. Anything that you are willing to practice, you can do.” – Bob Ross

On occasion, a student will ask if I have a favorite drum. I usually answer how there are many “favorites,” each one for a different reason. One may have the attack I like, another might produce a tone that makes me smile inside while playing.

I’ve often expressed how I feel much more relaxed in front of a group of people while sitting behind my drums. There’s something comforting about the familiarity of drums and cymbals around me.

And in a way, these percussion instruments become my friends. Though does one really ever beat on their friends?

“There’s nothing wrong with having a tree as a friend.” – Bob Ross

It goes without saying (but I’ll say it anyway)…drummers are a little eccentric.

The configurations and ways we set up our drum kits are as different and unique as each of us who plays the drums. We can flail around in strange and unusual ways while playing. Our bodies, minds, and hearts are in sync as we effectively produce a flow-full foundation – and contort our faces to the point where people watching us seriously wonder if we’re OK.

“I guess I’m a little weird.” – Bob Ross

It’s amazing to witness students becoming confident in their playing. To the point where they’re capable of expressing themselves through their drumming.

The intense smiles on their faces and the happiness following a great performance are rewarding. These are some of the delightful things I get to experience as a teacher. It’s gratifying for both the student and myself as well.

“I can’t think of anything more rewarding than being able to express yourself to others through painting.” – Bob Ross

During lessons, I will sometimes ask my students to just go CRAZY on the drums!

And the best part is I get to join in on all the fun.

I believe this is a place where wonderful exploration can happen while learning the drums. When we just let ourselves go “out there” and experience something not planned – and build on it – our confidence grows and creativity can flourish.

These “crazy” moments allow us to tap into a part of ourselves (and our drumming) we might not otherwise come to know.

“Let’s go crazy.” – Bob Ross

The act of drumming and painting have many things in common.

It wasn’t until that conversation with my student that I made this distinct connection (thanks, Evan).

Happy drumming,

“Mr. Ed”

Producing Artistic Director, Executive Director Rhythm Workshops

Master Drum Coach/Owner Round Rock Drums

Visit our website: https://www.roundrockdrums.com

Must watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAnCfooKBzg

However, if you’re looking for a customized drum kit, you’re simply not going to find this with your typical mainstream companies. To help you find the best kit for you, today we’re going to explore the 10 best custom drum companies that produce fantastic products.

#1 – Allegra Drums

Allegra Drums is an award-winning custom drum build company based in the heart of Vancouver. The company boasts the ability to create their own custom kits, as well as their premium contracts with leading manufacturers around the world.

#2 – Outlaw

Founded in Georgia, USA, Outlaw pride themselves on creating and restoring vintage drum kits using tried and tested modern techniques. They can even produce high-quality kits from 200 to 600 years old wood reclaimed from some of the most intriguing sources.

#3 – Liberty Drums

If you’re looking for a bespoke acrylic or wooden drum kit, Liberty Drums is your best bet. This boutique company is based in the UK and prides itself on its endorsement from American rock drummer Liberty DeVitto.

#4 – TRS

Based in Canada, TRS provides plenty of premium quality custom and drum repair services. This company is capable of repairing all kinds of drum kit from any age and can build you a custom set from the ground up.

#5 – Shaw Percussion

Shaw Percussion is one of the oldest and longest standing drum companies in the world. Established back in 1866, Shaw is based in the UK and provides quality drum kits for musicians of any skill level.

#6 – Q Drum

The Q Drum Company is the ideal choice for a custom drum kit if you’re looking for the rawness of a vintage kit, all produced with the quality of modern techniques. This leading manufacturer can be found in the heart of Los Angeles.

#7 C&C Custom Drums

Owned by Bill Cardwell, he is renowned around the world as a drum creation legend. With over 20 years of experience in the building industry, C&C Customs is one of the most trusted names in the music industry.

#8 – Drum Sound

Drum Sound can be found in the beautiful Turin region of Italy, and some have even called this the Ferrari company of the drum industry. These custom kits are renowned for being some of the best in the world where everything is created from scratch.

#9 – Molecules Drums

If you’re looking for something a little different that is sure to catch your audience’s eye, this is the company for you. The aesthetic of these drums are out of this world, and the sound produced is of a high level that you probably wouldn’t expect!

#10 – Risen Custom Drums

With a lifetime warranty on every set they make, Risen Custom pushes the boundaries of what it means to produce custom drum kits that musicians and fans will fall in love with. Be sure to check out their Glo (glow in the dark) kit!

About the Author: Gavin Whitner is a passionate musician and an avid sports fan. He’s also the primary blogger at MusicOomph, where he likes to blog about musical instruments and gear in his free time.

1. 1. Akaso 4K Action/Waterproof Camera– $75 – Every drummer wants a discrete camera to film themselves while they play. While a GoPro is a great choice, not everyone can afford to spend $500 on the latest model. That’s where this little guy from Akaso comes in! Why not buy your little drummer boy/man a few of these cameras with the money you’ll save!
      
   2. The GoPro Killer – YI 4K Camera – $299 – If you are looking for a step up in options and quality but still want to save money on a great camera, then you need this one! More comparable to the latest GoPro, it will not disappoint you.
   3. Pearl Air Suspension Floor Tom Leg FEET – $19.99 – These guys are incredible. They allow your floor tom to “float” on air, thus allowing it to resonate more freely. They do work. I love them. Your floor tom will sound much better with these. Simply pull off the rubber feet on your old floor tom legs, and push these babies on there! DONE!
   4. RocknRoller Drum Carts – $179/Price varies model to model – This is one of the greatest inventions of all time – at least for drummers or musicians that have to cart gear everywhere. I use this cart every week, and it has saved me thousands of trips to my car. I can get ALL my drum equipment on this baby.
   5. Roland Triggers – $79 – While I don’t use these guys to trigger sounds from my live drums, our audio engineer uses them to control the gate set on the rack and floor tom microphones. This does wonders for only allowing the microphone to pick up actual drum hits and not ambient cymbal noise/bleed! They could also be really fun to use in conjunction with the SPD-SX to trigger sounds!
      
   6. Roland Spd-SX – $799.99 – Yes, this is very expensive…but it’s incredible and worth it. Where do I even begin…this pad is capable of doing so much. I use it in conjunction with Ableton to trigger sounds (which is about 1/10 of what it is capable of doing!) You can load tracks directly into it and launch them from the pad without any other program, or you can connect it via midi to Ableton and have more fun!
      
   7. Pro Gaffers Tape – $25 – This is the ONLY gaff tape as far as I’m concerned. I use this to gaff anything and everything that needs to resonate less. I use this on my cymbals and drum heads. This brand is the best. Other brands leave a sticky residue when you peel it up after it’s used…Not PRO Gaffers Tape. Don’t settle for a lesser brand of gaffers tape.
   8. Rhythm Tech Tambourine – $15.95 – I love this style of tambourine because you can shake it, and then put it on your ride cymbal and use your stick on the soft pad to create a new sound! (like I did in this video)
      

More gifts to be added soon, but for now, check out these blog posts:

Do you have what it takes to be a first-rate drummer? Do you possess the musical—and physical—prowess to excel in this rhythmic vocation? These are questions you should definitely explore before investing in a top-of-the-line, professional drum kit.

Outstanding drummers possess a number of unique qualities—talents that enable them to shine in their chosen hobby or profession.  Sadly, however, not every person with musical aspirations actually has what it takes to truly make a drum sing.

To see if you are qualified to keep the beat, below we will highlight 7 crucial qualities that every drummer should possess (or be able to learn), and explain why each of these traits is so very significant.

1.  You clap On The 2 and 4
   Just like the rhythmic beats of your heart are crucial to your overall health, so, too, is your inner rhythm important to your drumming.  If you’re uncertain about this quality, try the clap test to your favorite song. If you feel like you are clapping on the 2nd and 4th beat—as opposed to the 1st and 3rd beat—you might just have the essential rhythmic timing.
2.  You Have Endurance
   Playing the drums can be physically exhausting. Not only is a great level of physical fitness required when playing on stage, but also during the seamlessly endless hours of practice, you will endure.  Fortunately, a consistent regimen of strength training and cardio exercise can ensure you are physically up to the task.
3.  You Stay Calm Under Pressure
   As a drummer for a live band, you are the keeper of time and tempo, and the backbone of the entire group.  If the music starts to go astray, it is your responsibility to get things back on track, which will require you to be calm, cool and collected in the face of pressure.
4.  You Have Limb Independence
   If walking while chewing gum presents an everyday challenge, you may want to develop a passion for something other than drumming.  Drummers are required to use their arms, hands, legs, feet, and brain in concert with each other.  Thankfully, there are books and lessons to help develop drum-specific coordination, but having at least some level of dexterity going in will definitely be helpful.
5.  You Constantly Tap on Everything
   If you’ve ever watched a professional drummer off the stage, you have probably noticed that they tend to create beats on almost everything around them; from trash can lids to milk cartons, constantly striving to hone their skills.  Practicing throughout the day on objects other than drums will only make you a better drummer.
6.   You Have Discipline
   Becoming a great drummer is unquestionably difficult; it takes hours upon hours to develop the necessary skills to excel.  As such, you will need to practice daily to become a great drummer, starting with the drumming equivalent of “chopsticks” before graduating to more difficult beats.
7. You Are Always Prepared
   The slogan of the Boy Scouts of America—Be Prepared—also applies to great drummers. As the captain of the band, it is paramount you show up early and ready to go, ensuring all the click tracks are ready, charts are written and the musical path is defined.

The physical, mental and musical requirements necessary for becoming a great drummer are many, but with perseverance, leadership and preparation nearly every (musically-inclined) person can eventually become good or great in this exciting field.

In episode #54 of Watch Me Live My Life – I head to The Audio Village to record drums for the next Austin Stone Worship album. I introduce my 2 residents and explain what part of my day to day job looks like. I play lots of gratuitous drum fills. I give you a taste of the what is to come from Austin Stone Worship. I also give you a walk through of my 1965 Camco drum set and Sabian Cymbals.

In episode #55 I head back out to The Audio Village to record more drums on the new Austin Stone Worship album. Kyle Lent gives an in-depth overview of all the drum microphones we use, explains how the recording studio was built, and I play some drums!

You can do this by hacking the Amazon URL to include &pct-off=90- at the very end of URL. (change 90 to whatever % off you want to search by)
If you would rather not try to hack the Amazon.com URL, use the helpful links below!

When searching for items, be sure to look at the “More Buying Choices”. They are usually the ones that are the best deals!

Amazon.com Deal Finder Cheat Sheet

Drums and Percussion: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

All Musical Instruments: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Guitars: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Studio Recording Equipment: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Tools: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Sports and Outdoors: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10q%

Books: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Camera and Photo: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Electronics: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Video Games: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Computers and Accessories: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Clothing, Shoes and Jewelry: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Beauty: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Home and Kitchen: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Cell Phones and Accessories: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

DVD, Movies and TV: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Furniture and Decor: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Baby & Toddler Toys: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

Kids Sports & Outdoors: 90% – 80% – 70% – 60% – 50% – 40% – 30% – 20% – 10%

What’s your favorite shopping category on Amazon.com?

Let me know in the comments and I’ll add it to the cheat sheet!

No matter if you are a first-time drum builder or an experienced drum builder, every custom drum builder will benefit from this drum building suite.

With 26 minutes of HD footage (like the clip below), and over 80 pages of detailed drum building how-to tutorials, this should be the first item on each drum builder’s list.

Click here for more information on the Drum Building Suite.

Paua Shell Veneer

Paul Shell is a very brittle shell that can be cut into thin sheets that can then be used to cover a drum set. It’s very difficult to work with, but the payoff or your patience is worth it.

Click here to view prices for Paua Shell Veneer on Amazon.

A Router

A good router is one of the key ingredients to building the custom drum set of your dreams.

This model that I currently have and love: Hitachi M12VC 2-1/4-Horsepower Variable-Speed Router

Of course, I also built a custom router table for it that allows me to cut bearing edges on drum shells up to 26″ in diameter. (as seen in the drum building suite)

A Drill Press

I admit this isn’t entirely necessary. You can easily build an entire drum set with just a screwdriver, but if you want to take your shop to the next level, you’ll need this.

Click here to see the drill press that I recommend.

A Shop Vac

I sold my shop vac a while back and replaced it with a broom…and what a mistake that was. Not only is having a powerful shop great for sucking up sawdust in the shop, but it’s also great to have around for odd jobs around the house…like vacuuming out your car!

Check out the #1 selling shop vac on Amazon: Shop-Vac 5986000 5-Gallon 4.5 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet Dry Vacuum

A Steam Bent Drum Shell

Steam bent drum shells sound amazing. I would be lying if I told you exactly why…but there is a difference between steam bent (think Craviotto) and ply (think Keller) drum shells.

Perhaps the steam bent shells have something to do with the $10,000 price tag on a Craviotto Drum set?

Click here to view the steam bent drum shells available from Ego Drum Supply.

A High Volume Low-Pressure Spray Rig (HVLP)

Only for the serious custom drum builders. If you plan on morphing your drum building hobby into a business, you may want to get something like this. Although they can be a pain to clean, they sure do make painting your custom drums easy.

The Earlex HV5500 Spray Station is a great spray rig.

A Drum Key Drill Bit

This is a must-have for drum builders and drummers. Change drum heads faster than you ever could with a standard drum key.
My Evans Drill Bit Key does the trick.

A Wood Burning Kit (Pyrography Kit)

Bring out the inner artist in you. Create stunning 3-D effects and designs using a wood burning pen. Learning the art of wood burning takes lots of patience. I would suggest buying a book about wood burning if you get one of these kits.

Check out the kit: Walnut Hollow Creative Versa Tool with Versa-Temp Temperature Control

Check out the guide-book: Pyrography Basics: Techniques and Exercises for Beginners

Subscription To Magazine

Stay current in the drum world by subscribing to Modern Drummer or !Drum Magazine. Get creative ideas from a woodworking magazine like Popular Woodworking.

A Bluetooth Stereo For The Drum Shop

To play the music from all the bands that you are making drums for! I recently got one of these, and it has changed my life. Since it’s portable I take it everywhere, so I have great sounding music in the shop, at my house, and in the office!

This is the Bluetooth stereo that I have: JBL Charge Portable Indoor/Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker | Black

GoPro Video Camera

I love my GoPro. I’ve shot several demo videos and drum cover videos (here) using my GoPro. I hope I get the GoPro Hero 4 for Christmas this year (hint if you are a family member reading this)

Check it out on Amazon: GoPro HERO4 BLACK

I hope that your Christmas this year is full of family, food, and fun! I’ll leave you with my drum cover of “Joy To The World” that I shot on my GoPro Hero2!

Did I miss anything? What would you add to this list? Leave a comment below!