Meet the Snare Drum | Omaha Symphony Virtual Instruments

Explore the snare drum with the principal percussionist of the Omaha Symphony Orchestra. The snare drum is one of the most popular instruments in the percussion family. It’s known for its crisp, sharp sound—kind of like a “rat-a-tat-tat”! You’ve probably heard it in marching bands, parades, and even pop and rock music. The snare drum is a non-pitched percussion instrument, which means it doesn’t play notes or melodies. Instead, it’s used for exciting rhythms.

What makes the snare drum special is the snare wires—a set of thin metal wires stretched across the bottom of the drum. When you hit the top with drumsticks, the wires vibrate and make that classic snappy sound. Snare drums can play soft and sneaky or loud and powerful. In the orchestra, the snare drum adds rhythm, energy, and even sound effects—like the patter of rain or marching footsteps.

This resource provides learning tools such as a tour of the snare drum in 3D, vocabulary, and examples of the instrument.