Stewart Copeland's snare drum... The old one.

[Budoman]

Can anyone confirm Stewart Copeland's original snare drum model from the 80s? Maybe even Stewart? He indicates in interviews it was a Pearl 5x14, chrome over brass, simple throw-off... tried finding another, wasn't the same... finally replicated as his signature Tama. Is this the one? Note the ridge pattern and vent hole below the center line. Manufactured briefly before they changed it, so it's rare.

[img]http://www.papercranedesign.com/pearl/pearlsnare.jpg[/img]

[TheEqualizer]

Welcome Budoman!!!!

I think that the exact drum STEWART used (other than it being a Pearl) is somewhat of a mystery, even to STEWART.

[Tamadude]

Pearl?

....but.....he's Tama's longest-term endorser!

http://tama.com/drums/tama_link.asp?pag ... index.html

And bienvenue, Budoman.

[Budoman]

Equalizer, thanks. I thought so. After reading several articles, I pulled this snare out to check. It's been stored safely for 25 years. Everything he says about it makes sense. And of course the sound! I believe I know why he couldn't find another. Anyway to have him verify it? Maybe his drum tech? I'd like to share what I know about mine if that's the case.

[TheEqualizer]

Jeff Seitz is usually pretty good about responding to e-mails. Send him the pic. I bet he clears this up pretty quick.

And I'm pretty sure that STEWART's snare was actually a Pearl.

Kind of like how I'm pretty sure STEWART actually preferred the sound of Ziljian rides over the rides by Paiste before his signature ride came out.

[Budoman]

Sorry Tamadude. You're right, of course, but here's an article where he talks about the Pearl snare drum all those years and how the Tama signature model was recently created.

http://gc.guitarcenter.com/interview/copeland/

Also check the interview in Modern Drummer Aug 06

[Tamadude]

[Budoman]

Thanks Equalizer. Will do.

[tamajt]

If you notice, Stewart has a ddrum trigger on his snare now. My friends and I are joking that he is actually triggering his old Pearl snare sound. That would be funny!

Cheers,

Jeremy

[falloutmike]

The Pearl drum in question is probably one of the 70's models that were indeed a thick chrome plated brass shell. I've played many of these as well as the 6.5x14 model...hella nice!

the Tama is the best example of the Pearl, although if you can find an old early 60's Slingerland (like I use with my gig) Krupa 5x14 model, it's a good replica.

It's still about the die cast hoop, the Coated Ambassador with either some tape or a couple of moongels and the way you whip the stick that makes the tone.

my $.02

-m-

BTW: So Cal dates coming soon- hit the site

[TheEqualizer]

Thanks, Mike. I was thinking that I should have mentioned you as a possible source in addition to Jeff. But I have been busy spazzing out about tickets. I am a bit calmer now that Ticketmaster FINALLY listed the Vegas show.

[DrummerDaveF]

From the Tama site...

Stewart Copeland's signature model is a faithful reproduction of the snare drum of "mysterious provenance" that he used with the Police and everything else from that time period. A brass shell ...(blah blah blah) ... provides sounds that easily penetrate what Copeland describes as the "dirge from the bass and the ear-piecing sounds of a guitar."

hahaha. You tell 'em Stew!

[Secret Journey]

[quote="Budoman"]Thanks Equalizer. Will do.[/quote]

hi yes that does seem to have a big likeness, did you have any reply from Jeff Seitz?

[Budoman]

Yes, thanks to all for the feedback. Jeff Seitz kindly confirmed and offered to verify it once he gets back. Apparently, he's on the road someplace . As the original owner, I have the receipt for my special ordered drum and have shared further info about it for Stewart and Jeff's benefit or curiosity. While yes there are similar Pearl snares from that period, most are not the same.

Here's a challenge for Stewart's fans... Does anyone have pics of Stewart playing his chrome snare from the 80s? I mean photos where you can clearly see the model of snare drum, not jut sitting behind his kit. I couldn't find any, so upload 'em if you got 'em!

[DrummerDaveF]

He stumbled upon "The One".