Drumhead

A drumhead is the membrane that forms the playable surface of a drum. It is stretched across the drum’s shell opening and held in place by a hoop and tensioning hardware. When struck, the head vibrates and transfers sound to the air and the drum body.

Historically, drumheads used animal skins such as calfskin or goat skin. In modern instruments, synthetic polymer films are standard, most commonly Mylar (polyester) heads. Coated heads have a matte surface and produce a warmer, mellower tone with more stick noise; clear heads have a brighter, more projecting tone. Heads can be single-ply (one layer) or multi-ply, with two-ply and even three-ply constructions for durability and specific tonal qualities.

Two main types by position: the batter head is the one struck by sticks; the resonant (bottom) head is on the opposite side and often thinner; some drums have only a batter head. In many drum configurations, the batter head is thicker or more tightly tuned to maximize attack and volume, while the resonant head contributes to sustain and pitch.

Head tension is adjusted with a hoop, lugs, and tension rods; tuning changes pitch and timbre. Performance considerations include climate sensitivity of animal skins, humidity, and temperature; synthetic heads are more stable but can sound different.

Drumheads are used across many drum types, including snare drums, bass drums, toms, timpani, and specialty percussion. Replacement is common due to wear or damage.