Drums, cymbals and percussion

Heads, tension rods, hoops, mounts and hardware are continuously exposed to tension and vibration.

Inspect head wear, threads, felts, washers, memory locks and points that repeatedly loosen. Remove dust and residue before it enters mechanisms.

If a component repeatedly loosens in the same place, identify the cause rather than tightening it progressively harder.

On a cymbal, small cracks at the edge or centre hole matter more than cosmetic shine.

Periodically inspect the edge, bell and hole, and ensure felts, sleeves and stands prevent metal-to-metal contact. During transport, separate cymbals and prevent movement that concentrates loads on their edges.

Cleaning and polishing can alter finish, logos and patina; use methods appropriate to the cymbal type and to the importance you place on cosmetic originality.