Drum heads need frequent maintenance. Each material has it’s advantages and disadvantages. Manufacturers have a wide selection of items from which to choose replacements. In general, buy natural and tuck them yourselves or get them pre-formed, but if you are pressed for time and money, feel free to use any head that fits!

Natural heads have a richness of sound … Continue reading →

This is preventative maintenance – cracks in fifes occur because simple precautions are not taken. So please take note of these points:

1. Always take the multiple piece fife apart after playing. This allows the moisture to dry out better without getting into the wood. Store it away from extremes of temperature, and keep it wrapped in a cloth or … Continue reading →

Please notify us if you are aware of the existence of any of the following:

1760 – Spencer Drum. The Drummer’s Instructor. London: R.Spencer, c. 1760. 1770 – Campbell MS. Campbell, Jacob Archibald, compiler. “Slow Marches & Quick Steps.” [1770 – 1780]. Rhode Island Historical Society. Only outer leaf survives. 1776 – Hillegas Fife. [A Compleate Tutor for the Fife. … Continue reading →