Choose the Best Percussion Gear for Your College Music Program
- Nathan Coles
- Jun 3
- 4 min read
Outfitting a college percussion studio is a long-term investment—not only in instruments, but in your students’ experience, growth, and preparation for the professional world. Unlike high school programs, college percussion gear often balance ensemble performance, solo study, and chamber music, so your gear should reflect a higher level of flexibility, sound quality, and durability.
Below, you'll find curated recommendations to help educators make thoughtful purchasing decisions when selecting concert percussion gear for a collegiate setting.
Table of Contents
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Snare Drums: Prioritizing Versatility & Detail
In a college studio, snare drums are used across a wide range of repertoire—from standard orchestral works to contemporary solo and chamber music. You'll want instruments that can handle these demands with sensitivity, projection, and a wide dynamic range.
Buying Considerations:
Stocking multiple snare drums with different snare systems gives students the ability to match the right instrument to the repertoire.
Consider operator ease, especially if the drums will be used by younger students or across rotating ensembles.
Balance budget-conscious picks with at least one high-end model that prepares students for professional auditions or graduate study.
Recommended Models:
Models: CM6514BL (Black), CM6514CR (Cherry)
Most budget-friendly option with an exceptional concert sound. Read our full deep dive.
Model: PT6514MD
Wider dynamic range with multiple cable types on a single unit. The snare unit uses progressive tension to emulate a multi-timbral snare system.
Model: SA514MDT
Engages three snare units simultaneously—simple to use but performs at a high level. Learn how to dial in your SoundArt drum, here.
Model: MS514MD
Our most advanced snare drum, with five adjustable snare units for total control over articulation and tone. Make the most of your Multisonic with our tune up tutorial.
Further Reading: Snare Drum Buying Guide
Tambourines: Choose Two for Coverage
A college-level tambourine should project clearly, respond easily at soft dynamics, and suit a variety of musical styles. Owning two models with contrasting jingle blends can cover most applications.
Buying Considerations:
Look for calf heads for professional sound quality and response. Consider synthetic heads for minimal maintenance in tough climates.
Jingle material affects tone—think German Silver for brightness, Chromium 25 for dryness, and Phosphor Bronze for dark/warmness. Check out our jingle guide for more options.
Recommended Models:
SoundArt Chromium/Bronze Tambourine
Model: TC1
Chromium 25 + Phosphor Bronze: Versatile and dynamic—our most popular model for good reason.
SoundArt German Silver Tambourine
Model: TD3
German Silver jingles, calf head: Bright, wet, and traditional orchestral sound.
Further Reading: Tambourine Buying Guide
Triangles & Beaters: Build a Palette of Color
A well-equipped studio should include a few triangles and a full complement of beaters. Each triangle and beater combo produces a different character, which becomes essential when interpreting different composers and styles.
Buying Considerations:
Aim for at least two triangles with distinct tonal qualities.
Include a variety of beaters for different attack and dynamic possibilities. Double beater sets are always good for sharing among students.
Don’t overlook the importance of a good triangle clip!
Mix and match triangles and beaters to meet the demands of the music. Check out our guide on picking out the right triangle beater.
Recommended Options:
Artisan Steel Triangle
Model: AT6
6" Steel Triangle: Bright and articulate.
Legacy Bronze Triangle
Model: LBT6
6" Bronze Triangle: Lush, brilliant tone with complex overtones.
Select Triangle Beaters
Model: SET-6
Steel rod-style beaters: Great all-purpose option. Check out our Bronze Select Beaters, too.
Spectrum Triangle Beaters
Model: SPSET-2
Bronze end-weighted beaters: Rich, broad tone. Check out our Stainless Steel Spectrum Beaters as well.
Spectrum Teardrop Triangle Beater
Model: SPEC4
Teardrop shape for nuanced color and control. Also available in Stainless Steel.
Triangle Clip
Model: TRCLIP
Essential for mounting. How else will you hold your triangle?
Triangle Gig Pack
Model: TGP
Triangle Gig Pack: A comprehensive triangle case for classroom or performance.
Further Reading: Triangle & Beater Buying Guide
Castanets: Traditional Meets Practical
Castanets are notoriously tricky. In a teaching studio, you’ll want durable, easy-to-play options that let students focus on sound and rhythm—not battling elastic bands.
Buying Considerations:
Choose handled castanets for direct control and access to extended techniques.
Machine Castanets allow for easy playing for younger students but offer the same, high quality sound.
All Black Swamp Percussion castanets use elastic-free tension systems for consistent feel and less maintenance.
Recommended Options:
Professional Handled Castanets
Model: PCC3-GD
Handled Grenadillo Castanets: Traditional tone and character. Play in the air and use extended techniques with ease.
Professional Castanet Mounting Frame
Model: PCMF
Mounting Frame: Converts handled castanets into a machine setup. (castanets not included)
Professional Castanet Machine
Model: PCC-CM
Fixed base castanets: Reliable and elastic-free with solid response. Easy to play!
Further Reading: Castanet Buying Guide
Woodblocks: Reliable, Resonant, and Resilient
Woodblocks might seem simple, but projection, tone, and durability are key—especially when used in larger ensemble settings.
Recommended Set:
Maple Woodblocks
Model: MWB1/2/3
Small / Medium / Large Maple Blocks: Covers the full range with solid tone and strong projection.
Accessory Mounting: Organize the Chaos
College setups are often tight, complex, and constantly changing. Smart accessory solutions save time, reduce frustration, and improve performance quality.
Recommended Tools:
RecPlate Mounting System
Model: RecPlate
Mount multiple accessories on a single, compact platform.
MultiLeg Set
Model: MLEG3
Three adjustable MultiLegs: Great for converting any concert bass drum into a standalone workstation.
Final Thoughts: College Percussion Gear For A Balanced Studio
The goal of any collegiate percussion studio is to give students access to the tools they need to explore, perform, and grow. Your gear should offer a mix of entry-level access and high-level refinement, ensuring that every student—from freshman to senior recitalist—is set up for success.
Invest in instruments that will last, offer flexibility, and align with the musical goals of your program. And when in doubt—ask your students what they need and listen to your gear in the hall.
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