Snare drum

The snare drum is essentially a simple frame drum. The body is a wood

or metal hoop with skins stretched over the top and the bottom, and

tightened by lugs.

The particular sounds of the snare comes from the snare wires, which

are a series of wound wires tensioned across the bottom skin. They

produce a distinctive buzz sound.

The snare is often used in styles like rock and folk to

provide a loud accented beat. Alternatively in samba music,

ghost notes are played continuously, with accented beats

outlining the rhythm. In this style snare provides drive to the music.

For reasons that are not entirely clear kit drummers tend to be

religiously protective of their snare. Whilst they are often quite

happy to share kits, a "bring your own snare" rule is often applied.