Winterizing You And Your Drum

Wow, it has been some time since I posted. Life, I guess. Well let us tackle this winterizing subject. Both you and your drum need to be able to withstand all that the winter throws us. From extreme cold to running into dry, hot air. Lets start with moisturizing. We, meaning you and your drum, both need shea butter to keep us moisted (a new word) up. Drum heads are skin and will dry up which could shorten its life. You know, if you ever had your head tear on you when it had just reached its 'best sound ever' can be quite traumatic. So that said, "What is the proper amount of shea for my head?" you ask. Too much would be scraping your fingernail across the head and using the shea collected to moisturize your hands. Too little would probably result, eventually, in a popped head. If you are not sure use your best judgment or ask your teacher or another drummer for their opinion. In order to not overdue the shea on the head here is my simple tip...put shea on your hands and massage the shea into the drum head. Don't forget the sides. Play at will. That's it! Easy! I totally recommend using pure shea butter with essential oils only. No chemicals. Note: shea butter in its raw form will go rancid after time. Adding essential oils such as grapefruit & vitamin E will help prolong its life. Most drum shops will carry shea.
Next tip is
NEVER KEEP YOUR DRUM IN YOUR CAR IN EXTREME CONDITIONS
I can't stress this enough. I have repaired many heads & shells because of drummers not realizing how much power temperature has over the well being of your drum. Extreme hot or cold can pop the head and/or create cracks in the shell which can be devastating for your drum and you also. So please treat your drum like you would an infant and take it inside with you during adverse weather. Who knows, you may attract someone who is interested in drumming or find a fellow drummer either way you win! Have fun drumming. Questions? Just email Kam at notbongos@gmail.com