Definition

Noun: A snare drum is a small, double-headed drum that has a set of wires (called snares) stretched across its bottom head. These snares produce a sharp, rattling, buzzing sound when the top head is struck, creating the drum's characteristic crisp and penetrating tone.

Usage

The term snare drum is used to refer specifically to this type of drum, which is a fundamental component of drum kits in popular music and a standard instrument in marching bands, concert bands, and orchestras. - The drummer started the song with a crisp roll on the snare drum. - In a marching band, the snare drum is carried with a harness. - The piece requires a very quiet, brushed sound from the snare drum.

Advanced Usage

• "Snare drum" in Orchestration: Composers often write specific techniques for the snare drum, such as rolls, rimshots, or playing with brushes instead of sticks.
  • The composer's notation indicated a snare drum roll to build tension.

Variants and Related Words

• Snare (noun): Can refer to the set of wires on the drum itself.
  • He loosened the snares to get a deeper, less crisp sound.
• Side Drum (noun): A synonym for snare drum, commonly used in British English and orchestral contexts.

Synonyms

• Side drum

Related Phrases

• Snare drum roll: A rapid succession of strokes on the snare drum.
  • The snare drum roll culminated in a loud crash.
• Snare drum stand: The hardware used to hold and position the drum.
  • He adjusted the height of his snare drum stand.

Noun

1. a small drum with two heads and a snare stretched across the lower head