Percussionists are well known for playing a number of different instruments. Correct sticking technique and sound production relies heavily on proper adjustment of the instrument you are playing. Before you play any percussion instrument you must first adjust it to your height.

1. Stand in front of the instrument with both of your feet approximately a shoulder's width apart from each other. The instrument playing surface should come just below your waistline.

2. Locate the height adjustment mechanism. Snare drums have an adjustment knob (a) on the vertical shaft of the drum stand. Loosen it while you hold onto the drum and move the drum to the correct level. Tighten the adjustment knob until it is snug again. Mallet equipment has adjustment knobs (b) on either side of the keyboard stand. This is a rather time-consuming procedure, so school instruments should be left alone.

Wrong
Right
2a.
2b.