Drum boxes, often referred to as homemade drums or DIY drums, are a creative and cost-effective way to enjoy the percussive wonders of drumming. Unlike traditional drums that may require intricate carving or expensive materials, drum boxes can be crafted from everyday items like empty boxes, cardboard, and even recycled materials. Their simplicity does not detract from their sound; quite the contrary, drum boxes can produce a rich variety of tones and rhythms, making them ideal for both beginners and seasoned drummers.
Construction: Building the Perfect Drum Box
The core of any drum box is the box itself. Ideally, this should be a round, sturdy container made from hard cardboard, such as an empty oatmeal box. The round shape helps in producing a more even and resonant sound, while the cardboard provides the necessary stiffness to withstand the vibrations of drumming.
Materials Needed:
A Round Cardboard Box with a Lid: This serves as the body of the drum.
Two New, Unsharpened Pencils: These will be transformed into drumsticks.
Aluminum Foil: Used to wrap the pencils and add weight to the drumsticks.
Tempera Paint and a Small Paintbrush: For decorating the drum.
Colored Construction Paper: To cover the lid and decorate the sides of the drum.
Glitter or Other Shiny Things: Optional, for adding a bit of sparkle to your drum.
Glue: To adhere the decorative elements to the drum.
Heavy Cord or String: For hanging the drum around your neck.
Art Apron or Old Shirt: To protect your clothes from paint and glue.
Old Newspapers: To cover your work surface and prevent mess.
Steps to Construction:
Prepare Your Workspace: Put on your apron, spread out the old newspapers, and gather all your materials.
Make the Drumsticks: Wrap each pencil in aluminum foil, ensuring it covers the entire pencil for a sturdy grip and added weight. Set them aside.
Paint the Drum: Using the tempera paint and brush, paint the outside of the box, excluding the lid. Allow the paint to dry completely.
Decorate the Lid and Sides: Cut out a round piece of colored paper to fit over the lid and glue it in place. Cut additional pieces of colored paper to decorate the sides of the box and glue them on. You can also add glitter or other shiny objects for extra flair.
Create a Hanging Cord: Measure the cord around your neck and waist to determine the length. Cut the cord and thread it through holes punched on each side of the box, just below the lid. Tie knots on both ends of the cord to secure it.
Functionality: How Drum Boxes Produce Sound
The sound of a drum box is produced through a combination of the box’s material, shape, and the force applied by the drumsticks. When the drumsticks strike the surface of the box, they cause the cardboard to vibrate. These vibrations are amplified and resonate through the air, creating the familiar percussive sound of a drum.
Factors Influencing Sound:
Material: Cardboard is a versatile material that can produce a range of sounds depending on its thickness and stiffness. Thicker cardboard tends to produce a deeper, richer sound, while thinner cardboard may result in a brighter, more brittle tone.
Shape: The round shape of the drum box helps in distributing the vibrations evenly across the surface, resulting in a more balanced sound.
Tension: Although drum boxes do not have adjustable tension like some traditional drums, the tightness of the box’s structure (how securely the lid is attached, for example) can affect the sound. A well-sealed box will produce a clearer, more resonant tone.
Striking Force: The harder you hit the drum, the louder and more intense the sound will be. Lighter taps will produce softer, more delicate tones.
Personalization: Making Your Drum Box Unique
One of the joys of creating a drum box is the opportunity to personalize it to your liking. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern design or a whimsical, colorful creation, the sky’s the limit when it comes to decorating your drum.
Ideas for Personalization:
Painted Designs: Use tempera paint or other non-toxic paints to create intricate designs, patterns, or even scenes on your drum.
Collage Art: Cut out images from magazines or other sources and glue them onto the drum for a collage effect.
Textured Materials: Add texture to your drum by incorporating fabric, leather, or other materials into your design.
Glow-in-the-Dark Elements: Use glow-in-the-dark paint or stickers to make your drum stand out at night.
Custom Drumsticks: Wrap your drumsticks in different materials or paint them to match your drum’s design.
Benefits of Drumming with Drum Boxes
Drum boxes offer a multitude of benefits for drummers and music enthusiasts, regardless of their skill level.
Cost-Effective:
Drum boxes are a budget-friendly alternative to traditional drums, making them accessible to individuals who may not have the financial means to purchase a more expensive instrument.
Easy to Construct:
With a few simple materials and a bit of creativity, anyone can construct their own drum box. This DIY process can be a fun and educational activity for children and adults alike.
Versatile:
Drum boxes can be used in a variety of settings, from backyard jam sessions to classroom music lessons. Their lightweight and portable nature make them ideal for taking on trips or to music festivals.
Encourages Creativity:
The process of designing and decorating a drum box fosters creativity and artistic expression. It allows individuals to express themselves through music and visual art combined.
Therapeutic:
Research has shown that drumming can have therapeutic benefits, particularly for individuals with emotional and behavioral difficulties. The rhythmic nature of drumming can help regulate emotions, improve focus, and enhance communication skills.
Conclusion
Drum boxes are a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and creativity of musicians. Their simple construction, versatile design, and the joy they bring to those who play them make them a valuable addition to any musical collection. Whether you’re a seasoned drummer or a beginner, a drum box offers a unique and fulfilling way to explore the world of percussion. As we continue to evolve and innovate in the realm of musical instruments, drum boxes remain a timeless and cherished option for those who love the rhythm and beat of life. So, why not grab some materials, roll up your sleeves, and start crafting your very own drum box today? The percussive possibilities are endless!
