The phrase “instrument that goes rat-a-tat-tat” immediately conjures up the image and sound of a snare drum, an essential percussion instrument in various music genres. Known for its sharp, staccato sound, the snare drum is often the heartbeat of a musical piece, providing rhythm, texture, and a distinct auditory signature that can be instantly recognized. This article delves deep into the snare drum’s history, its construction, the science behind its sound, its role in different music genres, and its cultural significance, especially in the USA.

Understanding the Snare Drum: The Instrument That Goes Rat-a-Tat-Tat

The Anatomy of a Snare Drum

The snare drum’s unique “rat-a-tat-tat” sound is a product of its specific construction. It consists of the following key components:

1. Shell: The cylindrical body of the drum, typically made from wood, metal, or acrylic, that gives the drum its overall resonance.
2. Drumheads: Two drumheads are stretched over the top (batter head) and bottom (resonant head) of the shell. These heads are typically made of synthetic materials like Mylar or Kevlar, although animal skin was traditionally used.
3. Snare Wires: The defining feature of the snare drum, the snare wires, are a set of coiled wires stretched across the bottom drumhead. These wires vibrate against the resonant head when the top drumhead is struck, producing the characteristic “snap” or “crackle” sound.
4. Hoops: The rims that hold the drumheads in place. They are often made of metal or wood and are secured with tension rods to adjust the drumhead’s tightness, affecting the pitch and tone.
5. Lugs and Tension Rods: These allow for fine-tuning of the drumhead’s tension, which in turn modifies the sound.
6. Throw-off Mechanism: This lever allows the player to quickly engage or disengage the snare wires, switching between a snare drum’s “snappy” sound and the more muted tone of a regular tom-tom drum.

The Sound of the Snare Drum

The snare drum’s “rat-a-tat-tat” sound is created when the drummer strikes the top drumhead with a stick. The impact causes both the top and bottom drumheads to vibrate. The snare wires resonate against the bottom drumhead, producing a sharp, crisp sound. The tension of the drumheads and snare wires, along with the material and construction of the drum, influence the sound’s tone, pitch, and sustain.

Historical Origins of the Snare Drum

The snare drum has a long and storied history, dating back to ancient times. Its earliest ancestor is the tabor, a small drum used in medieval Europe for military and ceremonial purposes. The tabor was often paired with a flute and played by a single musician, who would drum with one hand and play the flute with the other.

Over time, the snare drum evolved in both design and purpose. By the 16th century, it had become a staple in military bands, used to communicate commands and keep troops in step. The distinctive “rat-a-tat-tat” was not just for show—it was a functional part of military life, signaling different maneuvers or the approach of danger.

The Snare Drum in Modern Music

Today, the snare drum is a vital component of the drum kit and plays a central role in many music genres, including rock, jazz, pop, and classical music. Its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of settings, from the sharp backbeat in a rock song to the intricate rolls in a jazz solo. The snare drum’s ability to cut through other sounds in a band or orchestra makes it an indispensable tool for musicians.

The Role of the Snare Drum in Different Music Genres

Rock and Pop Music

In rock and pop music, the snare drum is often the anchor of the rhythm section. Typically, it is played on the second and fourth beats of a measure in a standard 4/4 time signature, providing a strong backbeat that drives the music forward. Iconic rock drummers like John Bonham of Led Zeppelin and Ringo Starr of The Beatles have used the snare drum to create memorable beats that are instantly recognizable.

Jazz Music

Jazz drumming is a more complex and nuanced art, with the snare drum often used for intricate rhythms and syncopation. Jazz drummers like Buddy Rich and Max Roach are renowned for their snare drum techniques, which include rapid rolls, ghost notes, and cross-stick playing. The snare drum in jazz is not just a rhythm-keeping instrument but also a voice for improvisation and expression.

Classical and Orchestral Music

In classical music, the snare drum is used for its crisp, martial sound. It is often employed in orchestral compositions to add dramatic tension or to mimic the sound of battle. Pieces like Sergei Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliet” and Igor Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” use the snare drum to great effect, creating tension and excitement.

Marching Bands and Military Music

The snare drum’s origins in military music are still evident today in marching bands. Its portability and sharp sound make it ideal for outdoor performances, where it can be heard clearly over long distances. The precision and uniformity of snare drum playing in marching bands are a testament to the discipline and skill required to master this instrument.

The Science Behind the Snare Drum’s Sound

Acoustic Properties

The snare drum produces sound through the vibration of its drumheads and the resonance of its shell. The tension of the drumheads determines the pitch of the sound: tighter drumheads produce higher-pitched sounds, while looser drumheads produce lower-pitched sounds. The snare wires, when engaged, add a layer of complexity to the sound, creating a bright, snappy tone that is rich in overtones.

Frequency Range

The snare drum typically operates within the mid to high frequency range, around 150 to 900 Hz. This frequency range allows the snare drum to cut through other sounds in a mix, making it a prominent feature in any musical arrangement. The sharp attack and quick decay of the snare drum’s sound give it a distinctive presence that is both powerful and versatile.

Material and Construction Impact

The materials used in the construction of a snare drum significantly impact its sound. Wooden shells, often made from maple, birch, or mahogany, produce a warm, resonant tone with a rich, full-bodied sound. Metal shells, typically made from steel, brass, or aluminum, create a brighter, more cutting sound with a sharper attack. The thickness of the shell, the type of drumheads, and the design of the snare wires all contribute to the final sound of the drum.

The Cultural Significance of the Snare Drum in the USA

The Snare Drum in American Music History

The snare drum has played a crucial role in the development of American music. From its early use in military bands during the Revolutionary War to its central role in jazz and rock music, the snare drum has been a driving force in the evolution of American musical styles. The “rat-a-tat-tat” of the snare drum has become synonymous with the rhythms of American life, from the parades of Main Street to the stages of rock concerts.

The Snare Drum in Education

In the USA, the snare drum is often the first instrument that young percussionists learn. Its straightforward design and immediate feedback make it an ideal starting point for beginners. Many school bands and music programs emphasize snare drum technique as a foundation for broader percussion skills.

The discipline and precision required to play the snare drum effectively are skills that can be applied to other areas of life, making it a valuable educational tool.

The Snare Drum in Popular Culture

The snare drum’s distinctive sound has permeated American popular culture. It is often used in soundtracks for films and television shows to create tension or excitement. The “rat-a-tat-tat” is a familiar auditory cue in everything from military dramas to high-energy action scenes. In addition, the snare drum has become a symbol of rhythm and precision, often associated with marching bands, drumming competitions, and musical performances.

How to Play the Snare Drum: Techniques and Tips

Basic Snare Drum Techniques

1. Grip: There are two primary grips for holding drumsticks: matched grip, where both hands hold the sticks the same way, and traditional grip, where the left hand holds the stick differently. Matched grip is more common in rock and pop music, while traditional grip is often used in jazz and marching bands.
2. Stroke Types: Basic strokes include the single stroke (one hit per hand), double stroke (two hits per hand), and buzz roll (rapid, controlled bounces of the stick on the drumhead).
3. Dynamics: Control over volume and intensity is crucial. A good drummer must be able to play both loud and soft, often within the same piece.
4. Rudiments: These are the building blocks of snare drumming. Common rudiments include the paradiddle, flam, and roll, each contributing to a drummer’s overall technique and versatility.

Advanced Techniques

1. Ghost Notes: These are very quiet notes played in between louder strokes, adding subtle texture and complexity to a rhythm.
2. Cross-stick: A technique where the drummer places the stick across the drumhead and strikes the rim, producing a “click” sound that contrasts with the usual snare drum sound.
3. Brushes: Instead of drumsticks, some drummers use brushes made of wire or nylon for a softer, swishing sound. This technique is commonly used in jazz and ballads.
4. Rimshots: By striking the rim and the drumhead simultaneously, drummers can produce a louder, more piercing sound that is often used for accentuation in a musical piece.

Tuning and Maintenance

• Tuning: Proper tuning is essential for achieving the desired sound from a snare drum. This involves adjusting the tension rods to ensure that the drumhead is evenly tensioned. Drummers often tune the top head tighter for a brighter sound and the bottom head slightly looser to allow the snare wires to vibrate freely.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance of a snare drum includes checking and replacing drumheads, snare wires, and tension rods as needed. Keeping the drum clean and storing it in a protective case can prolong its lifespan and ensure consistent sound quality.

The Evolution of the Snare Drum in the USA

Early American Drumming Traditions

The snare drum’s roots in the USA can be traced back to its use in colonial militias. Drummers played a crucial role in communication during battles, using different rhythms to signal commands. These military traditions laid the groundwork for the snare drum’s role in American music.

The Jazz Age and Beyond

The early 20th century saw the snare drum become a central component of jazz music. The “rat-a-tat-tat” of the snare drum provided the driving rhythm behind the improvisations of jazz musicians. Drummers like Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich became legends, pushing the boundaries of what the snare drum could do.

The Rock Revolution

The 1950s and 60s brought the rise of rock ‘n’ roll, and with it, the snare drum took on a new level of prominence. The backbeat, often played on the snare, became the defining feature of rock music. Drummers like Keith Moon of The Who and John Bonham of Led Zeppelin used the snare drum to create powerful, dynamic rhythms that propelled rock music to new heights.

Modern Innovations

In recent years, the snare drum has continued to evolve with advancements in materials and technology. Electronic snare drums and drum machines have expanded the sonic possibilities, allowing drummers to create a wider range of sounds. However, the acoustic snare drum remains a staple in both live performances and studio recordings, beloved for its timeless “rat-a-tat-tat” sound.

FAQs About the Snare Drum: Instrument That Goes Rat-a-Tat-Tat

What is the instrument that goes rat-a-tat-tat?

The instrument that goes “rat-a-tat-tat” is the snare drum, a key percussion instrument known for its sharp, staccato sound produced by striking the drumhead with drumsticks while the snare wires vibrate against the resonant drumhead.

Why is the snare drum important in a drum kit?

The snare drum is crucial in a drum kit because it provides the backbeat and rhythmic foundation for many music genres, including rock, pop, jazz, and classical music. Its versatile sound can cut through the mix and add texture and dynamics to a performance.

How do you tune a snare drum?

To tune a snare drum, you need to adjust the tension rods around the drumhead to ensure even tension. The top drumhead (batter head) is usually tuned tighter for a brighter sound, while the bottom head (resonant head) can be tuned looser to allow the snare wires to vibrate more freely.

What materials are snare drums made from?

Snare drums are typically made from wood (such as maple, birch, or mahogany), metal (such as steel, brass, or aluminum), or acrylic. The choice of material affects the drum’s sound, with wooden shells producing a warmer tone and metal shells creating a brighter, more cutting sound.

Can you play a snare drum with brushes instead of sticks?

Yes, you can play a snare drum with brushes, which are typically made of wire or nylon. Brushes produce a softer, swishing sound and are commonly used in jazz, ballads, and other music genres that require a more subtle, nuanced approach.

Conclusion

The snare drum, with its iconic “rat-a-tat-tat” sound, is much more than just a rhythm-keeping instrument. It is a versatile, expressive tool that has shaped the course of music history in the USA and beyond. Whether in a marching band, a jazz ensemble, or a rock concert, the snare drum commands attention with its sharp, crisp sound that cuts through the mix. Its evolution from a military signaling device to a central component of modern music is a testament to its enduring appeal and significance.

Understanding the snare drum’s construction, techniques, and role in different music genres provides a deeper appreciation for this instrument that goes “rat-a-tat-tat.” For musicians and music lovers alike, the snare drum remains an essential part of the sonic landscape, a driving force behind the rhythms that move us.

Incorporating this knowledge into your drumming or musical appreciation will not only enhance your understanding of this iconic instrument but also connect you to the rich history and cultural significance it holds, especially within American music.