The sound of drums has been used in various contexts throughout history, from ancient rituals to war marches. However, one particular type of drum has a rich and fascinating history that has captivated audiences worldwide for centuries - the marching drum. Marching drums have been used in military and marching band music for centuries, dating back to ancient Rome. The drum was used as a way to keep soldiers in step and maintain a consistent pace during marches. As time passed, the marching drum became an essential part of military parades and ceremonies.
In the 19th century, the marching drum became particularly popular in the African American community. Bands like the Black Brigade and the Fisk Jubilee Singers incorporated the drum into their musical performances, creating a unique sound that soon became associated with marching bands.
The rich history of marching drums provides a sense of unity, rhythm, and excitement that captivates any audience. Whether you're watching a military parade or a halftime show, the sound of the marching drum is sure to get your heart racing and your feet tapping along. So next time you hear the sound of a marching drum, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and cultural significance behind this iconic instrument.
The first type of marching drum
The history of drums, in general, is said to date back to 3000 BC however, marching drums date all the way back to the 1300s. The drum that you see today is very different from the original that is known as a Tabor. The tabor drum was played by holding a piece of rope in one hand whilst beating the drum with a stick or pipe in the other.
The drum was double-headed and the bottom of the instrument was a snare. The tabor became the most popular during the 1400s which is when it was used for military purposes as part of the Swiss and Ottoman armies. The tabor drum then formed two new revolutionary instruments – the snare drum that you see today. Being used by bands as part of a full drum kit and of course the more modernised marching drum that you can put around you and march the streets with two wooden beaters.
How much do marching drums cost?
Whilst the use of a marching drum used to be traditional when performing a march. Nowadays, the older designs are more of an ornamental piece with antiquity value. These can be found on popular websites selling from about £50 to over £470.
Modern uses for marching drums
Today, marching drums are used in a variety of contexts, from military parades to halftime shows at football games. Modern marching drums are made of lightweight materials and designed to be highly durable, making them ideal for use in outdoor performances.
More modern designed marching drums are great music instruments for children. They are a fantastic starter instrument that can help your child learn basic concepts of music such as rhythm, creativity and expression. They are also suitable for use at festival style events. It is still difficult to believe that the roman soldiers would march for around 20-30 miles per day. The marching drum would have been used during the war to help military soldiers synchronise for the battle formation and to communicate commanding messages.
Historically, marching drums have served various vital purposes, evolving from their origins as military instruments. Here are some uses of marching drums. In ancient times, marching drums were used in warfare to relay commands, coordinate troop movements, and maintain rhythm and discipline on the battlefield. They played a crucial role in signaling tactics, conveying orders, and boosting morale among soldiers.
As civilizations developed, marching drums became symbols of power, prestige, and ceremony. They featured prominently in royal processions, coronations, and state ceremonies, adding grandeur and pomp to formal occasions. With the rise of military bands and civilian ensembles, marching drums transitioned into musical instruments for entertainment and cultural expression. They became integral to marching bands, drum corps, and orchestras, providing rhythmic accompaniment and dynamic energy to musical performances.
Historically, marching drums have been central to parades, festivals, and celebratory events worldwide. They create a festive atmosphere, encourage audience participation, and unite communities through shared musical experiences. In modern times, marching drums are widely used in music education and training programs, helping students develop essential musical skills such as rhythm, coordination, and teamwork while fostering discipline, focus, and creativity.
Marching drums are prominent in competitive drumming activities such as drumline battles, drum corps competitions, and marching band contests. In these high-energy events, drummers showcase their technical prowess, precision, and showmanship, pushing the boundaries of musical performance.
Are marching drums popular?
Whilst marching drums are seeing a decline in interest in the past 20 years. The percussion instruments are still being used worldwide and sound effects recorded from them are still being commonly used in aged and modern films. Marching drums have a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries and continents.
From ancient Rome to modern-day America, these instruments have played a critical role in military and marching band music, providing a sense of unity, rhythm, and excitement that is sure to capture the attention of any audience. So next time you hear the thundering sound of a marching drum, take a moment to appreciate the long and storied history behind this beloved instrument.
How to play the marching drum for beginners
For beginners, learning to play marching drums requires mastering fundamental techniques such as grip, posture, and rudiments. Proper stick control and drumming posture are essential for achieving precise and consistent sound production. Beginners should start with basic rudiments like single strokes, double strokes, and paradiddles before progressing to more complex patterns and exercises.
The marching drum buying guide
Consider factors such as drum size, material, and budget when purchasing a marching drum for beginners. Look for durable drums made from high-quality materials like wood or fiberglass, as they offer better sound projection and longevity. Choose a drum size appropriate for the player's age, height, and skill level.
Techniques
Advanced marching drum techniques include accents, flams, drags, rolls, and intricate stickings. These techniques enhance musical expression and performance quality, requiring precision, control, and coordination. Practicing with a metronome and gradually increasing tempo helps develop speed and accuracy in executing these techniques.
Facts about marching drums
- The modern snare drum, an ordinary marching drum, originated from the military snare drum used in the 18th century.
- Marching drums come in various sizes, including snare, tenor, and bass drums, each serving specific roles in marching ensembles.
- Professional marching drummers often participate in competitive drum corps, showcasing their skills in intricate choreography and synchronized performances.
Marching drums hold a significant place in music history and continue to inspire musicians and audiences worldwide with their powerful rhythms and timeless appeal.
Where to buy a marching drum?
Investing in marching drums offers a range of benefits, including improved outdoor performance quality, skill development in rhythm and coordination, and opportunities for musical participation and community engagement. Check out our Marching Drums here.
Marching Drums (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the marching drum called?
Marching tenor drums, also known as "toms," are typically arranged in sets of 4-6 drums. These sets are often referred to by the number of drums in their configuration: "duos" (2 drums), "trios" (3 drums), "quads" (4 drums), "quints" (5 drums), and "sextets" (6 drums).
What are the three types of drum in a marching band?
It typically includes snare drums, bass drums, tenor drums, and cymbals. In the past, marching ensembles also commonly featured timpani and keyboard percussion instruments like glockenspiels and xylophones.
What makes the marching sound on the drum?
Marching snares are considerably deeper than those used in drum kits, nearly as deep as they are wide. This design produces a lower perceived pitch. The drum heads are extremely thick and made of durable materials such as Kevlar or thick Mylar.
What is a marching snare?
A marching snare is a larger and deeper snare drum compared to those used in drum kits. It produces a more resonant sound with its nylon or gut drum head. Often referred to as a "marching drum," it gets its name from its common use in marching bands and drumlines.
What is the history of marching percussion?
Marching percussion originated from military traditions, where drums were used to awaken soldiers in the morning, signal when to retire at night, and communicate manoeuvres to soldiers in the field.
Up next: What is Shamanism?
