Tuning with Overtones

An Applied Drum Tuning Guide for Musicians

Tuning with Overtones is my applied drum tuning text for drummers who want a deeper understanding of how their drums respond to tuning. The text focuses on the relationship between a drum’s fundamental, overtone structure, and the coupling between the batter and resonant heads. These relationships can be used to intentionally shape qualities such as sustain, attack, articulation, dryness, resonance, and timbre.

At the center of the methodology is the Resonant Tuning Factor (RTF), originally developed through the acoustic research of Dr. Rob Toulson. My text adapts this concept into a practical tool for understanding and shaping drum sound. The goal is not to replace other tuning methods, but to provide another way of understanding what is happening acoustically so that other techniques, tools, and personal approaches can be used with greater intention.

The text covers foundational tuning, drumhead selection, tuning ranges, shell construction, batter and resonant head relationships, overtone control, RTF, snare drums, tom voicing, bass drums, dampening, studio and live applications, and many other approaches to drum tuning. Each of the 20 chapters includes learning objectives, key terms, hands-on exercises, quizzes, and instructional material.

Available Through Drum Tuning Coaching

Tuning with Overtones is currently provided as part of my Tuning Coach service and is not yet available as a standalone text. Coaching gives you access to the book while we work through its concepts, listening exercises, and hands-on applications together.