Key takeaways 

Acoustic drum kit 

These are the types of drums that are most likely to spring to mind when thinking about rock and pop genres. In fact, we have a whole article dedicated to the various parts of a drum set!  

Snare drum 

The snare drum, a vital instrument in various ensembles, delivers a sharp, crisp tone that cuts through any musical composition. Crafted from diverse materials like wood or metal, its diameter ranges from 13″ to 15″.

Struck by sticks or brushes, it’s the backbeat of every band and a must-try for any beginner! 

Bass drum 

The bass drum is a crucial component of any drum kit and suits all sorts of bands, from jazz to rock. Its deep, captivating tone, crafted from maple or birch, sets the rhythm across genres. With diameters from 18″ to 24″, it’s struck by a foot pedal, creating a pulsating beat.  

Toms

Toms, also an essential part of drum kits, are used in a variety of ensembles. They offer a distinctive tone thanks to their construction from materials like birch or maple. With diameters ranging from 6″ to 20″, they can be played with drumsticks or hands, and their versatility shines across different music genres.  

Cymbals 

Although they’re not exactly drums, it’s worth mentioning the remaining features of an acoustic drum kit: the hi-hat, ride cymbal, and crash cymbal.  

The hi-hat is crafted from bronze or brass, creating crisp tones that cut through the music. With a flexible diameter of 13″-15″, it’s struck by sticks or manipulated by a pedal.  

The ride cymbal is known for its sustained, shimmering sound and is used in jazz and rock ensembles.  

A staple in most percussion ensembles, the crash cymbal is known for its loud, sharp sound used to accentuate certain beats. Struck with drumsticks or occasionally mallets, its explosive tone is prominent in genres like rock, pop, and orchestral music. 

Electronic drums 

Electronic drums are perfect for live and studio use, as well as drummers who want to practise silently without disturbing others. 

Electronic drum kit 

Electronic drum kits have revolutionised modern music-making, offering versatile sounds and portability. Unlike acoustic drums, electronic kits are used across various ensembles, ranging from rock bands to solo performances, due to their ability to mimic a vast array of percussive sounds. 

The tone of electronic drums is synthesised or sampled, allowing for an extensive range of sounds beyond traditional drum kits. They can emulate everything from a classic rock drum set to exotic world percussion instruments.

This wide tonal palette makes them incredibly versatile and adaptable to numerous genres, including pop, rock, jazz, and electronic music. 

The materials used in electronic drum kits vary. Typically made from rubber or mesh, the pads are designed to replicate the feel of an acoustic drumhead. The diameter of these pads can range from 8 to 14 inches for snare and tom pads, and up to 20 inches for kick drum pads. 

Electronic drum kits are played with traditional drumsticks and foot pedals, similar to acoustic drums. Some drummers also use their hands on certain pads, particularly when playing Latin or African drum sounds. 

Drum machine 

Now for something slightly different. Drum machines have become a cornerstone in numerous music genres, particularly electronic, hip-hop, and pop. These devices are essentially electronic musical instruments that create drumbeats, patterns, and sounds. They’re often used by artists and producers but can also be found in live ensembles where they’re used for backing tracks or to supplement acoustic drums. 

Like the electronic kit, the tone of a drum machine is synthesised or sampled, allowing it to produce a wide array of percussive sounds. Some machines faithfully reproduce classic drum sounds, while others offer unique, synthetic tones that can be manipulated for creative effects. 

Drum machines aren’t something that’s “hit”, rather they feature a series of buttons, knobs, and sometimes pads to trigger and sequence sounds. The layout and design can vary significantly across different models. 

They’re usually played by programming sequences using buttons or touch-sensitive pads. Some advanced models may also support MIDI input for more dynamic control. 

It was a wildcard to include in this guide, but drum machines have enabled artists to experiment with rhythm and sound design, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in music production. 

Hybrid drums 

For players who want the benefits of both acoustic and electric, hybrid drums are perfect.  

Acoustic drums with electronic triggers 

If you have a set of acoustic drums but want to explore a few more sounds, adding an electronic trigger is a great option. This nifty device clips onto your drums, sensing the head and rim for any vibration. This transmits a signal to your trigger module and produces a sound which blends with the acoustic sound in the mix.  

These are great for large gigs in which your acoustic kit is mic’d through a PA but you want some extra oomph.  

Hybrid drum kits 

Hybrid drum kits are sets that combine organic drums with electronic drum samples and modules. They’re often used in modern musical ensembles, such as electronic and pop music, but they can be a valuable addition to any genre.

The tonal variety you can achieve with a hybrid kit is unparalleled, making them excellent for performers who wish to experiment with sound. 

Materials used in hybrid drum kits can vary. The drum shells are often made from high-quality metal and wood, such as maple, whilst the drumheads are made up of a multi-ply coated film, usually Remo Powerstroke, which gives the kit a distinctive and unique sound.

Hybrid drum kits can come in different diameter ranges, and the size of the kit can range from a basic and simple setup to an extravagant setup for those drummers who want the full range of sounds. 

Hybrid drum kits are struck using sticks, pedals, hands, and electronic triggering. This electronic triggering is what makes a hybrid drum kit different from its acoustic counterpart. It enables you to access a range of samples, sounds, and effects. There’s also a silent option for practising without sound from the cymbals and drums. 

Hybrid drum kits are versatile and are an excellent addition to any genre of music, particularly contemporary music styles, such as R&B, hip-hop, electronica, and pop. 

Orchestral drums 

From the delicate sound of the triangle to the thunderous beat of the bass drum, orchestral percussion has the power to completely transform a musical piece. Drums are exceptionally important here, and among the most important in an orchestra are the timpani and concert bass drum. 

Timpani 

Also known as kettle drums, the timpani range in diameter from 20 to 32 inches and consist of a large bowl-shaped drum with a skin made from animal hide or synthetic materials stretched across the top. They’re also traditionally made with copper or brass kettles.

These high-quality materials provide excellent resonance and durability, allowing the drum to produce a rich, deep, and complex sound. Typically seen in groups of three or four, timpani are often tuned to specific notes and are played using sticks with soft felt tips.  

They’re most commonly used in symphonic orchestras, where they play a crucial role in providing rhythmic support and depth to the ensemble. 

You alter the dynamics of the drum by altering your hitting velocity, and you can change the pitch using the foot pedal. 

Concert bass drum 

Unlike the timpani, the concert bass drum is not tuned to a specific pitch and is used primarily for rhythmic and percussive effects. It’s a large, deep drum that is often made from wood, such as maple or birch. In fact, it’s the largest bass drum you’ll find, ranging from 30 to 40 inches.   

The concert bass drum is played with soft mallets, brushes, or even bare hands to produce a deep, booming sound. It can be found in a wide variety of music ensembles, including marching bands, orchestras, and concert bands thanks to its powerful presence and ability to provide a strong rhythmic backbone.

Marching drums 

The history of marching drums spans centuries, dating back to ancient Rome. They were used in military and marching band music – like they are today – to keep soldiers in time and retain a steady pace. Nowadays, they are also used in military parades and ceremonies.  

Marching snare 

The marching snare drum is the backbone of any drumline. About 12 inches deep and with a diameter range of 13-14 inches, it’s a versatile instrument that produces a clear and cutting sound.  

The drumhead is made of Kevlar, which is a synthetic material that helps to produce a bright tone. It’s hit with drumsticks, creating that crisp, cutting sound.  

Marching bass drum 

The marching bass drum is the largest drum in the drumline, and it’s played with mallets, producing a deep, resonant tone that can be felt in your chest.  

The diameter range of a marching bass drum starts from 16 inches and can go up to 28 inches. Its drumhead is made of Mylar, a durable and weather-resistant material that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions – perfect for marching bands! 

Marching tenor 

Marching tenor drums are also known as quads, comprising four to six drums that are arranged horizontally. The tenor drums produce a melodic sound, which makes them the most expressive instrument in the drumline.  

Their diameter varies from 8 inches to 14 inches, and they’re made of thinner material than the marching snare and bass drums, which allows them to produce high-pitched tones. Tenors are played with drumsticks and can be used to play intricate melodic rhythms in a variety of genres, including jazz, rock, and Latin music. 

South American hand drums 

When it comes to hand drums, South America has a rich and diverse tradition. Drawing inspiration from the continent’s vibrant music culture, the hand drums of South America are an expression of its people, their spirit, and their history. Each type of hand drum in this region offers a unique sound and performance. 

Congas 

The congas typically come in a set of three or four drums, each with a different pitch. Originating from Cuba, congas have a deep, resonant sound and are played with hands.   

They find their place in genres like salsa, rumba, and Afro-Cuban jazz, and they’re best suited to intermediate to advanced players. Whether it’s a solo performance or an ensemble, live conga performances are always fun and a great way to get people dancing.  

Bongos 

Also originating from Cuba, bongos are a pair of small drums held together. They’re typically played with fingers and can be tuned to produce high and low sounds perfect for rock, jazz, and Latin music.

It’s their tight, crisp sound that makes them well-suited to adding rhythmic variation to upbeat styles of music. Plus, they’re relatively easy to transport.

Better still, the bongos are perfect for players at all levels. 

Cajon 

The cajon is an incredibly versatile drum that finds its roots in Peru. “Cajon” means “box”, and the original design of the cajon was exactly that – a box.  

Snare wires were added later, and it’s this type of cajon that you’ll find in more contemporary music. 

The cajon’s sound varies depending on the type and thickness of the wood, and it’s played by sitting on it and hitting the surface with hands or mallets. You’ll usually hear it in traditional Peruvian music, rock, flamenco, and world music.

Tambora 

The tambora is a large, two-headed drum originating from the Caribbean coast of Colombia. Played with drumsticks, the tambora is essential in the music of vallenato, a traditional Latin American music genre. It has a deep, bassy sound and is often used as a part of folkloric ensembles.  

The only downside of the tambora is that its large diameter makes it a bit challenging to transport, but its unique sound is worth it. 

Timbales

The timbales were first created in Cuba in the late 19th century as a more portable version of the timpani that could be used for marching. As Cuban musicians travelled back and forth from the U.S., the timbales became increasingly influenced by the standard acoustic drum kit, resulting in them being constructed with metal shells.

Inspired by Cuban timbaleros (timbal players), percussionists in the New York Latin music scene of the 1940s-60s developed patterns on the timbales that worked well with mambo, boogaloo, and other Latin dance music. Nowadays, they’re known for their bright sound and are often set up with bells and blocks. They’re used in genres such as Latin rock, funk, and R&B.

Goblet drums  

You’ll recognise a goblet drum for its distinctive – you guessed it – “goblet” shape. Its curved design makes it easy to hold either under your arm or across your legs.  

African goblet drums 

Djembe  

The djembe is a type of rope-tuned skin-covered drum that originates from West Africa. It’s traditionally played by striking the drumhead with bare hands and fingers, and you’ll typically find it in a djembe ensemble, which is made up of three djembe drums: the lead djembe, the middle djembe, and the bass djembe.  

This type of drum is made using a variety of materials such as hardwood, animal skin, and rope, shaped like an hourglass. It produces a wide range of tones depending on where the drum is struck, how the djembe is tuned, and the type of skin used. 

One of the reasons why the djembe is so popular is because of its versatility. It can be played in a range of genres such as traditional African music, world music, and even modern pop and rock music.  

Bougarabou 

This drum hails from West Africa, where it’s commonly used in traditional ensembles such as the djembe orchestra. The bougarabou is played with bare hands and is known for its rich tone and ability to interlock with other percussion instruments. Its shape is similar to that of a cajon, with a wide base and narrow top. 

In terms of materials, the bougarabou is typically made from hardwoods such as khaya or iroko. Its diameter ranges from 9-14 inches, with a height of around 2.5 feet. The drumhead is made from goat or cow skin, which is stretched tightly over the top of the drum to produce its distinctive tone. 

When it comes to playing techniques, the bougarabou can be hit with hands, sticks, or a bass drum pedal, depending on the player’s preference. Its boomy, resonant sound is well-suited to genres such as reggae, afrobeat, and world music, making it a popular choice for bands and ensembles across the globe.

Udu 

The udu drum is a ceramic or clay drum that produces a deep, resonant sound. It’s typically played in an ensemble, alongside other percussion instruments, and is often used for traditional African music.

The shape of the udu drum can vary, but it generally resembles a vase or bottle, with an open top and a small hole on the side. This design ensures that the air inside the drum vibrates, producing different tones depending on how it’s struck. 

Middle Eastern goblet drums 

Darbukas and doumbeks 

Darbukas and doumbeks are both types of hand drums traditionally played in Middle Eastern and North African music.  

While they are similar in some ways, they have distinct differences as well. For example, darbukas are usually made of ceramic, metal, or wood with the head made of goat, fish, or even synthetic materials. They produce a sharp and crisp sound that is well suited to faster rhythms and high-pitched melodies.  

Doumbeks, on the other hand, are more resonant and bass-heavy thanks to their wider shells and sometimes larger head. They’re traditionally made of clay or metal (such as nickel or brass) and are often preferred for slower, more complex patterns. 

Frame drums  

Frame drums are narrow in depth but have a large surface area to hit. From Brazil to the Middle East to Ireland, they’re used in all kinds of music, such as samba and traditional Irish folk. And they’re easy to pick up, played by hands, beaters, or sticks.  

Tambourines  

Tambourines are commonly found in orchestras and bands and are often used in folk, pop, and rock genres.  

When you think of a tambourine, you probably think of one with jingles. This gives you that distinctive jingling tone along with the tone of the drumhead. They’re typically made from wood, metal, or plastic and feature a synthetic or animal skin drumhead.

The diameter can range from six to ten inches, and the playing technique varies, but it’s often hit with hands, fingers or, occasionally, a drumstick. They can also be played by shaking the instrument to create a rhythmic jingle. 

There are other types of tambourines without jingles, known as “bendi”, “bender”, or “mazhar”.  

Bodhran  

The bodhran, a traditional Irish frame drum, is typically found in Irish folk music ensembles. It emanates a low, resonant tone, with its drumhead typically made from goat skin.

The diameter generally ranges from 25 to 65 cm, and it’s played with a double-ended drumstick, known as a ‘tipper’, though some players prefer using their bare hands. It’s renowned for its distinctive sound in traditional Irish music; it’s also used in various folk and world music genres. 

Pandeiro 

A Brazilian variant of the tambourine, the pandeiro is predominantly featured in samba ensembles, but it’s also integral to choro and capoeira music. Known for its resonant and versatile tone, it’s usually crafted from wood and fitted with a synthetic or animal skin drumhead. With a diameter ranging from 8 to 12 inches, it is typically struck with the hands to produce a variety of rhythmic patterns.  

Tar 

The tar is a frame drum originating from the Middle East, and it’s a core element in Arabic musical ensembles. It produces a distinct, resonant tone, with its construction typically involving animal skin or synthetic materials stretched over a wooden frame.  

Like other frame drums, its diameter varies – from 14 to 16 inches, providing ample surface area for it to be played by hands, involving tapping and shaking techniques. This percussion instrument finds ubiquitous use in Middle Eastern music genres, including Khaliji, Raqs Sharqi, and various forms of Arabic folk music. 

Daf 

Also from the Middle East is the daf, a large frame drum of 20 to 25 inches that’s typically used in traditional and classical music settings. It emits a deep, rich tone thanks to its large size and construction, consisting of goat skin stretched over a wooden frame. Played with hands, it contributes to rhythmic patterns in Persian, Kurdish, Azerbaijani, and Armenian music genres. 

Ocean drum 

The ocean drum, captivating with its evocative sea-wave sounds, is often found in therapeutic and meditative musical settings. It’s characterised by a soothing dual-tone, created with small beads sealed inside which roll over the back of the drumhead.

Typically crafted from wood with a synthetic or natural skin drumhead, sizes vary from 12 to 22 inches in diameter.

It’s played by gently tilting or shaking it, mimicking the sound of ocean waves. While often used in ambient or new-age music, its versatility lends itself to various genres. 

Talking drums 

The talking drum, or ‘dondo’ as it’s often known in Ghana, is a fascinating percussion instrument with roots in West Africa. This drum’s unique aspect is the ability to mimic human speech’s tonal inflexion, hence the name ‘talking drum’. It’s a crucial part of many African ensembles, particularly in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, and is often used in ceremonies or communal gatherings. 

In terms of tone, the talking drum is remarkably versatile. By applying pressure to the drum’s laces, you can manipulate the pitch, producing a wide range of tones from high-pitched squeals to deep, resonant booms. This pitch variability allows the drum to replicate the rise and fall of spoken language, thereby ‘talking’. 

Talking drums are generally crafted from wood, with the drumhead typically made from animal skin, often goat or antelope. The drum’s body, or ‘shell’, is hourglass-shaped, giving it a distinctive appearance. The drum is laced with leather cords that run the length of the body, which can be squeezed to alter the drum’s pitch. 

The size of a talking drum can vary quite significantly. Smaller versions might measure around 10 inches in diameter, while larger ones can reach up to 18 inches. The size of the drum directly influences the range of tones it can produce, with larger drums capable of deeper, more resonant tones. 

Playing the talking drum typically involves a curved stick, known as a ‘beater’. The player tucks the drum under one arm and strikes the drumhead with the beater, while simultaneously squeezing the laces to modulate the pitch. 

In terms of genres, talking drums are ubiquitous in traditional African music and are often used to accompany storytelling or ceremonial events. In recent years, they’ve also made their way into contemporary music genres, including Afrobeat, Highlife, and world fusion, adding a distinct, rhythmic voice that connects the music to its African roots. 

Steel drums 

Tongue 

The tongue drum is also known as a slit drum or log drum, and it finds its roots in Africa but is used in many cultures worldwide. It’s used in ensembles as well as solo performances, often in ambient, meditative, or folk music.

The tone of a tongue drum is determined by the length and width of the ‘tongues’ cut into the top of the drum, producing a melodic, resonant sound that can range from ethereal, high-pitched tones to deep, rich bass notes.  

Traditionally, tongue drums are made from hollowed-out logs or wood, although contemporary versions can be found made from steel or synthetic materials. The diameter of these instruments can range from 8 to 24 inches, depending on the desired sound and portability.  

Playing the tongue drum involves striking the ‘tongues’ with mallets or using bare hands, allowing for a wide range of dynamics and rhythmic possibilities. The mellow, melodic sounds of the tongue drum make it a popular choice in a variety of music genres.

In addition to traditional African music, it’s used in new-age music, ambient soundscapes, and even some forms of rock and pop.

Plus, it’s also found a place in therapeutic music settings, given its soothing and healing sound qualities. 

Handpan  

The handpan is a captivating percussion instrument with origins in Switzerland. Though it’s often used as a solo instrument, it’s also found in ensembles performing ambient or meditative music. The handpan produces a rich, resonant tone, offering a variety of pitches based which area you strike. It’s renowned for its ethereal sound, lending a tranquil ambience to any musical setting.  

Constructed from two half-shells of steel, the handpan typically features a central ‘ding’ surrounded by several ‘tone fields’. It’s this steel construction that contributes significantly to its distinctive, warm tone. The diameter of a handpan typically ranges from 21 to 24 inches, making it a relatively large instrument.  

Playing the handpan involves striking the instrument with bare hands, typically the fingers. This approach allows for nuanced control over the dynamics and tone, resulting in a highly expressive performance.  

In terms of genres, the handpan’s mellow, resonant sound is found in ambient and new-age music. It’s also prevalent in world music genres and has found a home in some contemporary pop and rock music. Its soothing sound has made it popular in therapeutic music settings, providing a calming atmosphere for listeners.  

Indian hand drums

Tabla

The tabla, a percussion instrument from India, is predominantly used in Hindustani classical music and has found its way into various other music forms, including ghazals, bhajans, and even popular film music.

It’s often seen accompanying a sitar or sarod in classical performances and is also played in jugalbandi, a duet of two solo musicians. The tabla is a central component of the traditional Indian rhythm section, providing the rhythmic foundation for many musical ensembles. 

In terms of tone, the tabla is celebrated for its clarity, resonance, and the variety of sounds it can produce. The instrument’s rich tonal diversity is largely due to its unique construction, which comprises two separate drums: the smaller, treble drum known as the ‘dayan’ and the larger, bass drum called the ‘bayan’.

Each drum is capable of producing different pitches and tones, leading to a broad sound palette that ranges from deep, resonant bass tones to bright, crisp trebles. 

The tabla is traditionally crafted from a combination of materials. The dayan is usually made from a block of hardwood, such as rosewood or teak, while the bayan is typically constructed from metal, often brass or copper.

Both drumheads are made from goat or cow skin, and intricate tuning systems involving leather straps and wooden dowels ensure the tabla can be accurately tuned to specific pitches. 

Standard sizes are typically around five to six inches for the dayan and nine to ten inches for the bayan. You play the tabla by striking it with your fingers and palms, using a technique that involves complex finger patterns – this creates a variety of sounds.

The surface of each drum has a circular patch, known as the ‘syahi’, made from a mixture of gum, soot, and iron filings. This central area is often struck during play, contributing to the tabla’s unique tonal qualities. 

The tabla’s application spans genres beyond its roots in classical Indian music. It’s widely used in Indian folk music, devotional songs, and contemporary Indian pop and film music. Plus, its distinctive rhythmic patterns and tonal characteristics are favoured in various world-music genres and fusion music, where it often provides an exotic rhythmic layer.

Recently, the tabla has been increasingly featured in electronic music genres, underscoring its versatility and global appeal. 

Frequently asked questions 

What are the 3 main types of drums? 

The three main types of drums are bass, snare, and tom – if we’re referring to the most common drums used in Western culture. These drums make up the standard drum set and are used in countless music genres, including rock and pop. 

What is the drum that you hit on both sides?  

The marching bass drum is the drum that you hit on both sides. It is slightly shallower than the bass you’d find in a drum kit, allowing it to be carried and hit on the left and right. 

What is the hardest thing to learn on the drums? 

The hardest thing to master when learning the drums is the ability to play multiple rhythms at the same time – this requires a high level of coordination. It’s important to really grasp steady timings and ensure you’re able to retain the rhythm – without speeding up or slowing down. Your band or ensemble will thank you for this as you’ll be the backbone of the music!  

Final thoughts 

An instrument that’s rooted in all cultures across the world, the drum – in whichever form – finds itself in pretty much every genre you can think of. It has such a rich history that we could go on forever about the variations out there! Hopefully this article has enlightened you on all the different types of drums and maybe inspired you to pick up a drum you may never have thought of before!