Explore the Captivating World of Nesting Drums | Unique Sounds

The Unique World of Nesting Drums

Nesting drums, sometimes called nested drums or Russian nesting drums, offer a uniquely enjoyable musical experience. These colorful hand-painted drums are stacked one inside the other, with each drum decreasing in size from the bottom up.

The History of Nesting Drums

The origins of nesting drums can be traced back centuries to Russia, where they were created by craftsmen as toys for children. The traditional nesting doll, known as a Matryoshka doll, served as inspiration for the nested drum sets.

Over time, nesting drums evolved from children's toys into legitimate musical instruments. Modern drum companies now produce high-quality nesting drum sets for percussionists around the world. Thecolors and artwork pay homage to traditional Russian nesting dolls.

Unique Sound of Each Drum

Nesting drum sets feature a full range of drums needed to create rhythms and beats. The largest drum on the bottom provides a deep, booming bass sound. Progressively smaller drums offer higher pitched tones.

The arrangement of the drums creates a cascading effect where each drum's sound compliments the others. The tones step up and down in sequence, allowing drummers to explore polyrhythms not possible on other drum sets.

Ideal for Drummers Short on Space

One major advantage of nesting drums is their compact size. When collapsed and stored inside one another, the entire set takes up less space than a snare drum.

This makes them an ideal practice instrument for drummers living in apartments or other small spaces. They can enjoy playing a full drum kit without disturbing neighbors or taking up their entire living room.

Setting Up Nesting Drum Kits

Getting started playing nesting drums is simple. The sets are designed to assemble and collapse quickly, without the need for lots of hardware and stands.

Assembling the Drum Shells

To set up nesting drums, start by unveiling the largest bass drum and placing it on the floor. Then remove each consecutive smaller drum and stack them on top of the previous drum.

Keep stacking until you reach the smallest drum on top. Make sure each drum shell fits snugly into the one below it to prevent them from shifting while playing.

Adding the Drum Heads

Now it's time to attach the drum heads, using either skins or mesh heads. Make sure each drum head matches the diameter of its drum shell underneath.

Carefully lay each head over the open ends of the drum and attach using small claws, rods, or rims. Tune the heads to your desired tension based on the pitch you want from each drum.

Playing Techniques for Great Sound

Once assembled, nesting drums open up many creative options for percussionists. Here are some techniques to help you get the most out of your nested drum kit.

Take Advantage of the Unique Layout

The vertical arrangement allows you to ergonomically play rhythms across multiple drums at once. Keep your wrists up and use the full range of motion in your arms to bounce from drum to drum.

Incorporate cross-sticking patterns by reaching both arms across the set to create unique polyrhythms and accents.

Experiment with Different Stick Types

The sounds of nesting drums can change drastically depending on stick selection. Light, thin sticks bring out the tone qualities of smaller drums. Heavy sticks create thundering bass tones on larger drums.

Brushes sweep across the drum heads for percussion effects. Mallets also attach to produce softer, jazzier tones.

Use Accessories for Sound Variety

Add cymbals, cowbells, or wood blocks to expand your sound set. Mount them above or around your nesting drum kit. Tambourines also pair well when mounted on drum rims.

With so many creative options, nesting drums keep practice and performance fresh and exciting. The kit offers versatility beyond their small footprint.

FAQs

What are the benefits of nesting drums?

The key benefits of nesting drums include their compact, space-saving design and the unique ability to create cascading rhythms across multiple stacked drum shells. The vertical layout allows drummers to easily incorporate polyrhythms and cross-sticking techniques.

Are nesting drums hard to assemble?

No, nesting drum kits are designed for quick and easy assembly. You simply stack the drum shells by size into each other, add the pre-fitted drum heads on top, tune them, and then you're ready to play.

What drum sticks work best with nesting drums?

Light and thin drum sticks bring out the tone of the smaller drums. Heavy sticks create loud bass tones on the larger drums. Brushes, mallets, and rods also create unique sound qualities.

Can you add cymbals or blocks to nesting drums?

Yes, many drummers add complementary percussion like cymbals, tambourines, cowbells, and wood blocks mounted around their nesting kits for more sound variety.