Drum Day

What Is Drum Day?

October 10th is "Drum Day" in Japan. The date comes from a wordplay likening "10" and "10" to a drummer's hands and sticks -- "1 (stick), 0 (drum), 1 (stick), 0 (drum)." It was established by Rittor Music, publisher of the drum specialty magazine "Rhythm & Drum Magazine."

A Rhythmic Holiday Born From the Shape of Sticks and Drums

The drums are an essential instrument in band performance, forming the rhythmic foundation across countless musical genres.

• Origin: a visual wordplay likening the sequence "1010" to alternating drumsticks and drums
• Purpose: to spread the appeal and depth of the drums as an instrument to more people
• The magazine's role: the publication behind the holiday continues to feature drummer interviews and playing technique content

The Unsung Backbone of a Band's Sound

The drums often draw less attention than vocals or guitar, but a band's overall groove simply can't come together without a drummer keeping precise rhythm.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Listen closely to the drum part in a favorite song
• Find an opportunity to actually play the drums
• Check out performance videos from your favorite drummers
• Learn about the history and different types of drums

A Steady Rhythm Breathes Life Into the Whole of Music

Rarely the center of attention, the drums are what give music its sense of momentum, beat by beat. October 10th is a day to listen closely to the rhythm being kept.