Wood, Brass and Calfskin Snare Drum c.1920
ABOUT
Vintage brass, wood and stretched calfskin snare drum. The calfskin has no cracks and is intact. The drum retains is original painted detailing on the sides. Possibly used in a marching band. The piece has retained its original finish and is in excellent condition with appropriate patina for its age.
- CREATOR Unknown
- DATE OF MANUFACTURE c.1920-1940s
- MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES Wood, brass.
- CONDITION Excellent. Wear consistent with age and use.
- DIMENSIONS H 10 in. x Dia 14 in.
HISTORY
The snare drum seems to have descended from a medieval drum called the tabor, which was a drum with a single-gut snare strung across the bottom. It is a little bigger than a medium tom and was first used in war, often played with a fife (pipe); the player would play both the fife and drum. By the 15th century, the size of the snare drum had increased and had a cylindrical shape. This simple drum with a simple snare became popular with the Swiss mercenary troops who used the fife and drum from the 15th to 16th centuries. The drum was made deeper and carried along the side of the body.
Further developments appeared in the 17th century, with the use of screws to hold down the snares, giving a brighter sound than the rattle of a loose snare. During the 18th century, the snare drum underwent changes which improved its characteristic sound. Metal snares appeared in the 20th century. Today the snare drum is used in jazz, pop music and modern orchestras.
