Bass Drum

As Printed on a Score

Labels the bass drum line (Bass Drum, B.D. or B. Dr. later), written on a single line or low in the bass clef within a percussion staff. Tremolo strokes ask for a roll, and l.v. (let vibrate) or a damping sign tells the player whether a stroke rings or is stopped.

Abbreviations: B. Dr., B.D.

Also spelled: Bass drums

How Composers Use It

The deepest unpitched sound in the orchestra: a single soft stroke is felt more than heard, a roll gives distant thunder, and full strokes anchor a climax — Verdi’s bass-drum blows in the Dies irae of his Requiem are the extreme case. It rings long, so mark lengths, and name the beater (soft mallet, timpani sticks for a clearer roll, a hard stick for attack) when it matters.

Related Terms