I hesitated to write this because it seems like something that every drummer knows. In fact, every drummer I know who has “been around the block” does know this trick. But then I remembered that when you’re just starting to play drums, there is a world of information that is new. So in that spirit, I present to you, my beginning drummer readers, “The Old Wallet on the Snare Drum Trick.”
If you can’t get your snare drum to sound good, place your wallet on top of it and your problem is instantly solved. It has never failed me.
I usually place my wallet at twelve o’clock on the snare head so it’s out-of-the-way of the “action.” In addition, I will frequently duct tape it to the snare head so it doesn’t bounce around. Yes, you have to try to tune the drum, and yes, the snare wires have to be adjusted to the best of your ability. But if you’ve done all that and your snare still doesn’t sound right, use the wallet trick.
That’s it. Simple. It works. Try it.
He first gained attention as one of the winners of Modern Drummer magazine's very first drum solo contest, judged by Rush's Neil Peart.
He's played with Oz Noy, Will Lee, Alison Krauss, Curtis Stigers, Emily Remler, Joel Hoekstra, GE Smith, Andy York, Marshall Crenshaw, Tony Shanahan, The Drifters, The Marvelettes, Big Brother and The Holding Company, and many other artists.
For more info: onlinesessiondrummer.com
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thanks for the information
you’re welcome!!
Personally, I think it’s a fad. Been playing drums for 30 years, competitively and professionally. Having a wallet bounce around on the snare while you play is annoying as hell! You should just take the time and learn to tune the drum properly. Plus, if the snare has a mic on it, the wallet doesn’t do that much to the sound. Other methods like a piece of gaffer tape, to take the ring off the snare work fine. But as for deadening the snare sound , I just don’t get it? Each to their own though.
Hi Colin – Yeah, I don’t disagree. A bouncing wallet is a drag. I think it’s an OK solution in a pinch. I’ve also taped my wallet to a snare drum and had that work decently. Mostly this post was intended for beginner drummers who have never heard of the “wallet” option. Thanks for reading.
Mark F
This was really cool, thanks for sharing!
Hey David!
You’re welcome. It’s an old drummer trick….still very useful!!
Thanks for the tip.