Drum Sets
A drum set is a collection of various percussion instruments
set up in such as way as to allow a single person to play them all.
The most common assemblage consists of a bass drum, snare drum, hi-hat,
tom-toms and few cymbals. Cowbells, wood blocks, and other percussion
instruments are often included for additional sounds.
Drum sets have been in existence since the 1890s, but really became
en vogue during the early 20th century thanks to the popularity of jazz
music. Drum sets had the advantage of occupying a much smaller space
and allowed for a single player to utilize all the different components.
As rock and country music evolved the instrument became an integral
part of those, as well as nearly every other popular genre of music.
The infinite variations possible with a drum set allow the musician
to create a personalized "sound" that can be instantly recognizable.
The materials used and design of the particular component can drastically
alter the sound of the drums, as well as the cymbals. The same can be
said for drumsticks, heads and hardware - making the drum set one of
the most versatile instruments available.