The percussion section of the music industry encompasses a wide range of instruments, from the simple bongo drum to the complex piano. Percussion hardware is a term that refers to various items that support or are accessories for percussion instruments. Other types of hardware, such as stools to sit on and stands for music, electronics, and other items, assist the musician in playing the instrument. Depending on the type of music, such as jazz, rock, or marching band, the hardware varies.
Even within the same type of percussion hardware, such as snare drum stands, there are variations. These variations may be influenced by the musician’s playing style, such as orchestral work, recording sessions, or live performances. The instrument’s sound can sometimes be altered by the hardware. Rock musicians, for example, prefer heavy, booming bass drum effects, whereas jazz and orchestra musicians require a lighter, more harmonious sound. Another factor that contributes to variation is that many manufacturers have their own distinct style and design.
The differences in percussion hardware are sometimes dictated by the diversity of musical instruments. A bongo stand, for example, differs from a bass drum stand or a concert-style snare drum stand in the drum section. There are variations even within the narrow field of bongo stands, such as the single drum stand and the double drum stand.
Many percussion instruments have centuries-old traditions, and the stands and other accessories are based on them. New instruments and percussion hardware have emerged as technology has progressed. Stands for electronics such as laptops and small electronics that store musical data are an example of new hardware. Mic stands or clamps that attach the microphone to the existing hardware are required by many percussionists. These clamps and adapters are an excellent example of how percussion hardware is progressing.
The instruments that the musician uses to strike the percussion instruments are among the various types of percussion hardware. Drumsticks or snare brushes, bass drum foot pedal for concert sessions, or mallets are examples. Hardware, such as the djembe stand or the wood block holder, is frequently designed and made specifically for an instrument. In some cases, such as snare drum tilter harness kits or bass drum mallet holders for marching bands, they make the hardware specifically for the type of music session. Leather or nylon straps for marching band or concert players, as well as stands for suspended cymbals or high hat cymbals, are all examples of cymbal hardware.