Also known as a “drum set” or a “trap kit.” An assemblage of drums, cymbals, percussion instruments, electronic drum and percussion gear, and other items intended to be played by one person. Typical drum kit components consist of one or more kick drums; at least one snare drum; various tom-toms; a hi-hat cymbal; various crash, ride, and effects cymbals; cowbells; wood blocks; “found” objects, and more. (The specific components will vary depending on the player’s needs, preferences, and desires, as well as the musical styles being performed.)
The modern drum kit evolved due to financial considerations — prior to drum kits, each percussion instrument was generally played by a different person. The advent of the drum kit allowed a single person to perform many percussion instruments and parts, which saved substantial money and also saved space.
