Things You'll Need:
- Drum key
- Lubricant
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Step 1
Tune the snare drum by seating the head so that it's even on all sides with the rim sitting on it snugly. Finger tighten a lug on one of the tension points to the right. Return to a lug next to the first one and do the same. Continue this process around the drum.
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Step 2
Tighten the tension points with one-half turn to the right with your drum key in the same order as the previous step. Then do it again, but this time use one quarter turns.
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Step 3
Make fine adjustments at this point to get the sound you want. Normally you don't want the top head to have much give on a snare drum, although the bottom head usually has more give. Adjust the snare strainer as needed.
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Step 4
Clean a snare drum when necessary by loosening the tension rod (with a drum key) and removing the top head with a drum key. Wipe down the following: rim, tension rod, edge of the shell, rod casings. Put everything back together and repeat with the bottom head.
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Step 5
Replace dented and torn drumheads, as there's no way to repair them.
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Step 6
Inspect snare strainers, wires, rods, bolts and nuts. Replace frayed or broken parts. Apply lubricant to tension screws and other bolts and nuts. Wipe off excess oil with a lint-free cloth.
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Step 7
Remember to check your snare stand too. Occasionally rubber tips need replacing or lubricant added to threaded parts.
