The Gifts That Keep On Gigging

The holidays are a great time to gear up! This month, I’ve made a list of cool drum-related stuff you might want to put on your wish list. The items on this list range from things that I’d consider essential for starters, to great add-ons or alternatives for the experienced drummer’s kit.

Since that fateful Christmas morning from my youth, when I woke up to find an off-brand, red sparkle drum kit with my name on it, I’ve been in a never-ending pursuit of percussion paraphernalia. As drummers, we know the sound we’re after and that sometimes, it requires a very specific piece of hardware or learned technique.

For the non-drummers in our lives, it may seem a little overwhelming and probably a bit confusing. The following list is meant to spark some gift ideas that you can share with them, making their shopping easier, and your holidays rock!

1. Drum Sticks

A nice pair of drum sticks is absolutely essential. Maybe you’ve got more sticks than you can shake a stick at. 😁 In that case, ask for brushes, blastix, or mallets, to expand your kit’s voicing.

2. Stick Bag

It’s a bag … that holds your sticks. I don’t know what else to say about this one except ya gotta have a nice bag to carry your sticks or you look like a rookie.

3. Books on Drumming

There are so many great books available for drummers, but no collection is complete without these; Stick Control by George Lawrence Stone, Accent Control by Ron Spagnardi, and Survival Guide For The Modern Drummer by Jim Riley.

4. Drum Heads

New drum heads are SO satisfying. Like the sound a freshly opened canister of Pringles makes. (Is that just me?) Evans, Remo, and Aquarian are my favourite brands. Pro Tip: Don’t forget to include sizes on your wish list.

5. Mounted Tambourine

I just love having a few little extra percussive sounds added to my set up. A hat-trick tambourine that mounts to your hi-hat rod, or drum set mounted tambourine can add some jangle to your jingle.

6. Cymbals

Crash, ride, hi-hat, china, splash … the variants of cymbals is massive. Your best option here is to visit your local music shop and beat some tin. See what makes your eardrums sizzle (in a good way!) and drop that knowledge on your favourite gift-giver.

7. Electronic Drum Kit

Electric drums have come a long way over the years and they’re great for practicing without disturbing anyone. I play my Yamaha DTX almost every day. Probably why I’m still happily married. P.S. Don’t forget the headphones.

8. Acoustic Drum Kit

If you have the room and space and tolerant neighbours, or if you’re a gigging drummer, then a good ol’ acoustic kit is definitely the way to go. Again, I suggest doing lots of research to make sure you get what you really want. I have an acoustic kit in my teaching studio with low volume cymbals, and I have 2 drum kits specifically for gigging.

9. Practice Pad

Every drummer needs a practice pad. It’s always good to fit in some practice whenever and wherever you can. Gotta keep those chops in shape.

10. Cajon

The seat you can beat! That’s a cajon (pronounced Kahon) This one is on MY wish list. I’ve been good … mostly.

11. Bass Drum Pedal

Drum pedals should feel fluid and grounded. A quality drum pedal can improve your kick drum speed and agility. I use a DW5000, but you should definitely try a few out to see what suits your playing style best.

12. Drum Throne

Yes, it’s called a throne for a reason. Because DRUMMERS RULE and ya gotta be comfortable when playing the drums.

So there you have it. Twelve gift ideas for non-drummers who have no clue what to buy for drummers.

I hope you have a wonderful holiday season, and a very happy new year!

BONUS GIFT IDEA

(and shameless plug)

Gear is great, but it doesn’t make you a better drummer. A private drum lesson can help identify areas for improvement, and focus on methods and techniques tailored just for you.

Drum lesson gift certificates are available on my website!