|
 |
Tuning and Caring for your Drum
Healthy Skin, Happy Drum.
Drum skins are a very natural thing, and needs moisturizing just as our own skin does. Ironically, the more you play and beat a hand drum, the less it need nourishment. The skin picks up oils from your hands, and gets "broken in", which is the healthiest state of being for a drum head. This does not apply to Bodhran skins, or any other drum played with sticks or mallets.
|
Keep your skin happy and it will return the Favour!
|
 |
Protecting your Drumskin
There are many products out there for drum skin treatment, but I use pure Shea Butter and it works wonderfully. It is also excellent for your own skin, so when you treat your drumhead, you both benefit. A small amount rubbed into the skin will last months before you notice any dry look or feel to your skin.
The primary concern with skins, and the cause of almost all skin popping, tear out, etc... is temperature. The skin expands and contracts with temperature and humidity, and the larger the surface, the more noticeable it is. That is why cheaper Bodhrans have a tendency to tear or split, they get so tight if not properly taken care of they just pop. Avoid temperature extremes, this is the most common cause of skin stress and eventual failure. I often get asked "how long will the skin last?". If it is moisturized to keep the fibers supple, and not stressed by temperatures, you can play your heart out for years and years. Skins are not fragile, when they are dirty you can scrub them, when you want to you can pound them, just keep them happy and they'll return the favour!
If your drum is going to be left in anything less than desirable conditions, which a well played drum usually does, I can't recommend a bag enough. A bag will not only protect it from dings and nicks, but from temperature fluctuations. Bags will protect your investment, whether you buy one or make your self a simple "drumsock" style bag.
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
