Marc Brattin | Drummers should carry on-Stage Survival Kit
By: Marc Brattin
Tags: Drummer, Music, Marc Brattin, Drum

Most of the drummers always carry spare parts along with their drum kit when going to perform in any event. These items amassed because there may be chances of the breakdown of a drum kit and you need to fix it says, Marc Brattin.

He is a famous percussionist who always makes sure to have extra on hand similar to insurance against any breakdown in future. The professional use this insurance policy over the years whether frolicking nearby or out of the city.

However, it is good to have all these items, but they are not of any use if kept offstage. The percussionists must reach them in a hurry whenever they need tools. This is crucial especially in case if individuals do not have a drum technician to take care of problems in case of an emergency.

Drum

Two Things that Drummers Should Keep Within Reach

The first thing is a WingKey — an all-in-one tool designed a few years ago by a drummer Frank Parise. The handle of WingKey contains drum key socket on one end. Also, it has a hexagonal socket on one end for use on the 0.5″ nuts used on seat thrones, multi-clamps and rack systems.

It is also useful for changing timbales, congas and bongos. The other end is positioned to fit on large and small wingnuts. Moreover, size is too small to fit in a stick bag and is easy to work with.

The second thing is an indispensable roll of black gaffers tape. It is all-purpose tape and can be useful for making repairs, muffling drums, securing set list to stand out and also for quick bandaging jobs.

Drum Specific Tools:

A few traditional drum keys and a small set of Allen wrenches are two basic drum specific tools. The professional like Marc Brattin percussionists also include four in one reversible screwdriver, pliers and adjustable wrench with basic tools.

Along with this, Brattin also uses to carry the collection of spare parts. The professional instrumentalist also puts hi-hat clutch, wingnuts, metal washers and a spare bass drum beater etc. in another bag.

This is crucial to have these on hand if the performer is using backline drums. It is advisable that if instrumentalists use their own kit on tour, they have spares for some heavy parts like straps and footboard hinges.

Furthermore, carry a bag that contains antibiotics ointment, Q-Tips, Band-Aids, and tweezers. This is vital to bring with you to cover the injuries that often occur during the setup and breakdowns. If individuals are partial to specific drum muffling product, then they should carry some of that.

A famous drummer — Marc also suggest bringing some bass drum impact patches like Remo’s Falam Slams and Aquarian’s drum-kit tools. Along with their acoustic function, you can also use them as spare repair patches on damages.

Wrapping Up

In reality, the above drum tools seem like extra stuff to keep onstage says, Marc Brattin. But performers must remember that when they need something, they need it at that time not tomorrow. Hence, they should carry the above-said tools along with them while going to perform.

Originally Posted: https://marcbrattin.wordpress.com/2018/02/15/drummers-should-carry-on-stage-survival-kit/