History of the Drumset: Part 3, 1900's - The Bass Drum Pedal

History of the Drumset: Part 3, 1900's - The Bass Drum Pedal


A CENTURY OF DRUM SET EVOLUTION WITH DANIEL GLASS

 

Ludwig patents a free-standing, spring-driven bass drum pedal. Although drummers have been experimenting with various foot-operated devices for decades, the Ludwig design is dependable, portable and helps establish the bass drum pedal as a permanent part of the drum set. Over 100 years later, Ludwig's basic pedal design is the one we still use.


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IMAGE GALLERY

One of the earliest non-overhang pedals.

The original Ludwig pedal was patented in 1909.

Another early bass drum pedal.

An early advertisement for the Ludwig pedal.

Ragtime showmen like Buddie Gilmore make some of the first recordings that prominently feature a drummer.


VIC FIRTH PRODUCTS THAT MADE HISTORY

1994 Stone Grinding

Vic begins producing sticks in center-less stone grinders rather than traditional lathes. A first for the industry, stone grinding increases quality, consistency, and allows for more complex design elements such as unique tip shapes and tapers.

1983 Signature Series

Vic Firth launches the Steve Gadd signature model and becomes the first company to produce signature drumsticks that reflect the true musical requirements of the artist. To this day, each model is conceived through extensive research with the world's top players.

1994 Stone Grinding

Vic begins producing sticks in center-less stone grinders rather than traditional lathes. A first for the industry, stone grinding increases quality, consistency, and allows for more complex design elements such as unique tip shapes and tapers.

2002 Injection Molded Nylon Tips

Vic solves the age old problem of nylon tips flying off by developing an injection molding system whereby the stick and the tip become one! For the first time in drumstick history, nylon tips mirror the shape and profile of their wood counterparts!