POOR PERCUSSION PLACEMENT

Creating a drumset layout that incorporates percussion items in a practical yet aesthetically-pleasing manner is not as easy as one would think.  Items must be placed in strategic locations so as to be easily accessible from the drum stool, while at the same time not detract from the overall appearance of the set.

This is why I have always admired Neil Peart (have I mentioned him before?) for his incredibly ingenious arrangements, which are not only beautifully artistic but also simplistic and highly effective.  The way he builds "extras" in and around his basic drum setup is amazing to me.  Why, even just the drums and cymbals themselves, without any added electronics or cowbells, etc., are a work of sculptural magnificence, as in the case of his "Hockey Kit," which he used to record the theme song for TSN (the Canadian version of ESPN).  Designed by Drum Workshop, this gorgeous kit is emblazoned with NHL team logos, and is now on display in the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto, Ontario.

But just for comparative purposes, let me offer an example of a "not-so-ingenious" arrangement.  Admittedly, I don't even know who this guy is, but I am sure he is an incredibly talented jazz drummer.  He is just a little lacking in the area of "creative setup ideas."

I will give the guy credit, mounting a bell tree right on top of the bass drum is indeed original, but not the particular placement I would go with.  The bell tree, after all, should not be the centerpiece of one's arrangement, even though after spending $270.00 on a single item it almost seems it should be.  The bell tree needs to be in a less conspicuous location in my opinion, somewhere behind the primary assemblage of drums and cymbals, where it can be played as a secondary additive for percussive enhancement.  I would rather be known as a "Drummer/Percussionist" than a "Bell Tree Striker" with a few drums scattered around me as an afterthought.

There is one really cool idea this guy came up with, though, and that is affixing a single Crotale atop the bell tree.  That's pretty original and practical, if the pair were placed in a better location as I mentioned before.  I'm not sure how he accomplished this, but if I could figure it out I might consider it.

But Neil Peart's method of using a modified Ludwig hoop-mount cymbal holder seems a better route for me to follow...