Acoustic and electronic drum kits, cymbals, and percussion instruments
Drums and percussion form the rhythmic backbone of virtually every style of music. From thundering rock drum kits to delicate orchestral percussion, these instruments drive the beat and energy of a performance.
Drums are among the oldest instruments in human history, with archaeological evidence dating back over 8,000 years. The modern drum kit evolved in early 20th-century America when jazz drummers combined multiple drums and cymbals into a single setup played by one person.
A standard drum kit includes a bass drum, snare drum, hi-hat, toms, and cymbals. Electronic drums use rubber or mesh pads with sensors to trigger digital samples, offering quiet practice and a vast range of sounds.
John Bonham, Neil Peart, Buddy Rich, Tony Williams, Dave Grohl, Sheila E., Questlove, and Vinnie Colaiuta represent just a fraction of the legendary drummers who have shaped modern music.
The bass drum pedal, invented in 1909, was a breakthrough that allowed one person to play what previously required multiple musicians. Modern electronic drum modules can store thousands of different drum sounds.