There are three types of drums used in a pipe band. These are Bass Drum, Side or Snare Drum and Tenor Drum.

Bass Drum

Usually only one of these is carried by a pipe band. It is a very important instrument in the band because it
(a) signals all music starts and stops, and
(b) gives a steady rhythmic beat to keep time for the other band musicians.

It is the heaviest drum and requires both strength and a good sense of rhythm in its carrier.

This drum is carried in the center of the band, behind the last row of pipers, and in front of the drum section.

Side or Snare Drum

A ratio of one side drum per three or four pipers is the norm for most pipe bands. Side drummers provide a rhythmical complement to the pipe section, which involves playing a variety of beatings in a controlled manner, according to the tune being played. Pipe band snare drummers are amongst the best drummers anywhere.

Side drummers form the last row(s) in a pipe band.

Tenor Drum

Two types of tenor drum are played in pipe bands :
(a) Swinging Tenor - in which the tenor drum sticks are swung or flourished in coordinated movements, while rarely striking the drum; to add "spectacle" to a pipe band.
(b) Alto Tenor - in which the drum is played in tandem with the bass drum to add sound to the band. Not all bands either want or need an alto tenor drummer. There are usually from two to four swinging tenor drummers in an average-sized pipe band.

The tenor drummers occupy the row between the bass and side drummers.
 

Practice

As with learning any musical instrument, learner drummers have to be dedicated to the task. They must be fully prepared to devote at least one half hour per day - every day - to practice.

Equipment needed for practice :
1. Bass drummer - a pair of bass drum sticks and an open door.
2. Side drummer - a pair of snare drum sticks and a practice pad.
3. Tenor drummer - a pair of tenor drum sticks.

Note: A tape recorder is very useful for playing drum beatings or pipe music while practicing drum exercises.