When to change Timpani Heads?

CSO Timpanist David Herbert explains what to listen and look for, when it's time to replace synthetic Timpani Heads.

[@axeljacob394]

My favorite Timpanist!!! ❤️ Super insightful as always!!

[@tunedinwithdavidherbert4655]

Thank you, Axel! Hope to see you soon!

[@MortonLuvz2drum]

So I was thinking to myself, "Should I put a set of Renaissance heads on my 26 and 29"? (Because I love the sound that I am getting with them on an old floor tom) .... And, there you have it. Question confirmed. I'll second that motion.

[@bowiedj]

This room looks familiar. Yes, I’ve been there. Thanks, David for taking us back stage tour last June... thanks also for this great posting....

[@tunedinwithdavidherbert4655]

Hi Bowie!

[@christianwanabe4804]

Thank you! This info could not have come at a better time! Hope I can study some rep with you some time soon.

[@tunedinwithdavidherbert4655]

Thank you and glad it could help!

[@rustynails68]

I wish that my best drum sounded as good as your worst drum.

[@christianwanabe4804]

I'm struggling with 26" D sounds flat but conductor says it's sharp. Obviously, it not in tune with itself. I used a tuner but try to use my ear. Pitch different when you step back a ways. This head came with the drum from Holland, Adams Philharmonic. Maybe head shifted a bit in trailer, not sure. I don't have a fine ear yet, need more time, maybe study violin for awhile? Am volunteering in orchestras and band to get better, till I can win an audition. Help. I think put new head on cause I tried and tried to get this head to sound better. We just did Tchaik 4, my first time. I listened to you on KZbin playing same with San Francisco. Great sound! I really learn a lot from you. Thank you.

[@someguythatsucksatdrumstan1510]

Thank you! One question though, what timpani are those?