The Yamaha SFZ snare drum is an extremely popular marching drum, found in many drum lines the world over. Unfortunately, marching percussion instruments are extremely susceptible to wear and tear, given the outdoor nature of performances and heavy-hitting style of players. With a few simple tips, you can keep your Yamaha SFZ snare drum tuned and in perfect working order.
Instructions
1. Practice drum tuning in groups. A drum line will sound best when all of the snare drums are tuned to the same pitch. Tuning with your fellow drum line members will also allow you to give reminders and tips, and can conveniently be done together before a rehearsal.
2. Make sure tension rods and wood bearing edges are properly lubricated to prevent unnecessary strain to your drum. Lithium grease, petroleum jelly or valve oil can be used on tension rods. Cork grease or paraffin are appropriate for wood bearing edges, and will serve to prevent moisture from entering your drum. Excess lubricant will attract dirt, and should be wiped away.
3. Use the proper drumheads. A Kevlar top head and plastic bottom head are the ideal choices for your SFZ snare drum. Replace worn or "dead sounding" heads when they begin to sound lifeless and dead, not only when they break.
4. Tighten the bottom head's tensioning rods in a "star" pattern. Start by tightening the rod closest to you only a quarter turn. Next, move to the rod on the opposite side of the drum, and tighten that a quarter turn as well. Proceed by tightening the rod immediately the right of your original rod, followed by the rod to the left of your second rod, and so forth. The Kevlar top head should be tuned in a clockwise fashion. Remember, tuning does not always equal tightening. The goal is to make your drum sound crisp and clear, with a pitch similar to the other snares in your drum line.
5. Minimize the amount of necessary tuning you'll have to do by storing your drum properly. Drums should be kept in a hard shell case when not in use. Store your drums in a cool, dry area; excess humidity will quickly detune your snare drum, and reduce the lifespan of the drum itself.
