The bass drum used in popular music is somewhat smaller, about 12-16 inches high with a diameter of 18-23 inches. In the world of marching bands and brass bands, it will ordinarily be 10-18 inches high with a diameter of around 14 inches. The symphonic version is struck with large cloth-covered sticks, also known as "beaters," and leaves an indelible impression in the concert hall. In popular music, the bass drum stands vertically and is struck with a pedal. The instrument will commonly have only one drumhead. In marching bands, the instrument will be carried using shoulder straps, and the single drumstick held in the right hand. A fixed cymbal will often be attached to the frame, and it can be struck with a loose cymbal held in the left hand. The bass drum is also a component of the "one-man band," consisting of a number of percussion instruments which are carried on the back of a street performer which he operated with his feet by means of cords. An accordion is typically used as the melodic instrument. |