What are the factors when choosing bass drumsticks? What are the best drumsticks for bass drum that you should try out? How to get a drumstick out of a bass drum? If you are in a marching band who plays the bass drum, then these questions may be somewhat of an intrigue to you. Join us, as we are going to give light to these queries.
What Are The Factors To Consider When Choosing Drumsticks For Bass Drum
When it comes to purchasing bass drumsticks for marching bands, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
Size And Weight
The size and weight of the drumsticks can affect the player’s performance and comfort level. For bass drumsticks, the length is typically around 17-18 inches, and the diameter is usually between 0.670 and 0.710 inches. The weight of the sticks can also vary, with heavier sticks producing a more powerful sound but potentially causing fatigue more quickly.
Material
Bass drumsticks are typically made from either hickory or maple wood. Hickory is known for its durability and ability to withstand heavy playing, while maple is lighter and more responsive. Some players may prefer one material over the other based on personal preference and playing style.
Felt Material
The material commonly used in marching bass drum stick felt is wool. Wool felt is a popular choice for percussion mallets due to its durability, flexibility, and ability to produce a warm, full-bodied sound. The wool fibers are compressed and woven together to create a dense, consistent material that can withstand heavy use and provide a consistent sound over time.
Other materials such as synthetic blends or other types of natural fibers may also be used, but wool felt is the most commonly used material for marching bass drum mallets.
Grip
The grip of the bass drumsticks can affect the player’s comfort and control. Some sticks may have a smooth finish, while others may have a textured grip or rubber coating to improve grip and reduce slippage.
Brand And Price
The brand and price of the bass drumsticks can vary widely depending on the quality and features of the sticks. Some well-known brands for marching band drumsticks include Vic Firth, Pro-Mark, and Innovative Percussion. It’s important to find a balance between quality and affordability to ensure the best value for your money.
Playing Style And Skill Level
Finally, it’s important to consider the player’s individual playing style and skill level. Some players may prefer heavier or lighter sticks depending on their playing technique, and beginners may benefit from starting with a lighter-weight stick to build endurance and improve control.
So when purchasing bass drumsticks for marching bands, it is always important to consider factors such as size and weight, material, felt material, grip, brand and price, and the player’s individual playing style and skill level. By taking these factors into account, you can find the best bass drumsticks to suit your needs and achieve the desired sound and performance.
Best Drumsticks/Mallet That Try Out For Playing Bass Drum In Marching Bands
American Drum Blackjacks
American Drum Blackjacks are a type of percussion mallet that is used for bass drums. These mallets are made with a large, soft rubber head that produces a deep, full-bodied sound. The head is designed to be played with a sweeping motion, which allows the player to create a sustained tone on the bass drum.
The shaft of the mallet is made from hickory, which provides a comfortable grip and helps to reduce hand fatigue during long performances. American Drum Blackjacks are a popular choice for drumline bass drummers and are often used in marching band and drum corps performances.
Promark OBD4 Optima Large Marching Bass Drum Mallet
The Promark OBD4 Optima Large Marching Bass Drum Mallet is a percussion mallet designed for bass drums. These mallets feature a large, hard felt head that produces a powerful, full-bodied sound. The head is designed to be played with a sweeping motion, which allows the player to create a sustained tone on the bass drum. The shaft of the mallet is made from hickory, which provides a comfortable grip and helps to reduce hand fatigue during long performances.
The OBD4 mallets are part of the Optima series from Promark, which are designed for use in marching band and drum corps performances. These mallets are a popular choice for bass drummers, particularly those who play in large ensembles where a strong, powerful sound is needed.
Vic Firth Corpsmaster MB3S Soft Bass Drum Mallets
The Vic Firth Corpsmaster MB3S Soft Bass Drum Mallets are a type of percussion mallet designed specifically for bass drums. These mallets feature a soft felt head that produces a warm, mellow tone on the bass drum. The head is designed to be played with a sweeping motion, which allows the player to create a sustained tone on the bass drum. The shaft of the mallet is made from hickory, which provides a comfortable grip and helps to reduce hand fatigue during long performances.
The MB3S mallets are part of the Corpsmaster series from Vic Firth, which is designed for use in marching band and drum corps performances. These mallets are a popular choice for bass drummers who want to produce a softer, more delicate sound on the bass drum.
Innovative Field Series FBX1S Extra Small Soft Marching Bass Drum Mallets
The Innovative Field Series FBX1S Extra Small Soft Marching Bass Drum Mallets are a type of percussion mallet designed for bass drums. These mallets feature a small, soft felt head that produces a warm, mellow tone on the bass drum. The head is designed to be played with a sweeping motion, which allows the player to create a sustained tone on the bass drum. The shaft of the mallet is made from rattan, which provides a lightweight and flexible feel.
The FBX1S mallets are part of the Field Series from Innovative Percussion, which are designed for use in marching band and drum corps performances. These mallets are a popular choice for bass drummers who want a softer, more delicate sound on the bass drum, particularly in indoor and concert settings.
How To Get A Drumstick Out Of A Bass Drum
So, how to get a drumstick out of a bass drum? If a drumstick is stuck inside a bass drum, there are a few steps that can be taken to safely remove it:
Turn The Bass Drum Over
If the bass drum has a bottom head, turn it over so that the opening is facing upwards. This will allow you to see inside the drum and locate the drumstick.
Use A Flashlight
Shine a flashlight inside the drum to locate the drumstick. This will make it easier to see where the drumstick is and how to remove it. This will be helpful if you are trying to remove the drumstick at a darker place where there is less light.
Use A Stick Or Coat Hanger
Take a long stick or coat hanger and gently push it through the hole in the drumhead to nudge the drumstick toward the opening.
Gently Pull Out The Drumstick
Once the drumstick is close enough to the opening, you should make sure to gently pull it out of the bass drum.
It’s important to be gentle during this process to avoid damaging the drumhead or other parts of the drum. If the drumstick is stuck too far inside the drum, it may be necessary to remove the drumhead to access it.
So, what are the factors when choosing bass drumsticks? For choosing one, you should always consider its size and weight, material, its felt material, grip, brand and price, and lastly what fits your playing style and skill level.
