How to Clear a Timpani Head or What is clearing a timpani head

[@Quazgar_of_the_North]

You don't need the drum dial if you have a decent ear for pitch. You can just start straight from playing each lug and comparing them by ear.

[@davidbayliss9348]

The drum Dial can get you started on a stable tone very quickly. Some further adjustment by ear may be needed. Also, if you are in a noisy environment, the Drum Dial saves a lot of time.

[@freepercussionlesson]

You’re right you don’t need a drum dial but it is a helpful tool

[@andrewproctor3003]

Sometimes the Drum Dial can get you going in circles. Use your ear if the dial is taking you all over the place

[@kathleenlogan1893]

Does a regular drum key work for tuning timpani or do you need one specific for timps? Thanks.

[@freepercussionlesson]

Snare drum tuning keys and timpani tuning keys are different sizes. If you can't find a timpani tuning key you can always use an adjustable wrench. Ludwig and Yamaha timpani use the same size key. Other brands of timpani like Adams, Majestic, etc use a different size, but none to my knowledge use a key that fits a snare drum

[@bcbdrums]

Hi, what am I doing wrong if I can’t get the pitch the same at each lug? The same ones are always out, and always by the same increment when I check with the drum dial. Could my drum be out of round?

[@freepercussionlesson]

Here are somethings to consider. If your head is very old you might have to get a new one. Old heads are difficult to clear sometimes. Sometimes the Drum Dial can mess you up so if you find that you can't match the readings at your lug points, just use your ear. I live in hot South Florida and I've learned that heat can fix a wonky head. I leave my drums in the van for a day or so when the temps are 90 degrees or more and after that the drums always sound better. I had a teacher who used a heat gun, but you run the risk of burning a hole in your head with one of those things. You can measure to see if your bowl is out of round with a measuring tape. Just measure at all the points and if you find a big difference you might have to get out the rubber hammer and gently knock the bowl back to round.