Cooperman Hand Drums start in the Vermont woods where we select native hardwood trees to mill, using methods passed down through generations of sawyers and drum builders to create our single-ply steam-bent wood shells. We mill a variety of wood species - primarily cherry, ash, and maple.  We specify the wood for each model drum based on a variety of considerations, including sound characteristics of the shell, weight, and appearance.  

Similarly, Cooperman offers drums with a variety of drumhead materials. We recommend synthetic heads - natural skin drumheads have a traditional and unique sound, but they are a great vexation to drummers since swings in temperature and humidity greatly effect tuning and playability. In many cases (as with the AIS series) we specify a particular drumhead (ie. REMO Renaissance or REMO Weatherking Clear). We use, exclusively, REMO synthetic products, choosing from their extensive catalog of options to suit the sound characteristics of the various drum models. We can mount a skin head at your request.

The drumhead is secured into an exterior groove, which is then covered with a colored cord. The default color is black, though in some cases we coordinate the color with other design features or decorative inlays.  

All Cooperman drums are tunable. The tuning mechanism (US PATENT # 5,517,890) was developed and patented to address the evolving requirements of frame drummers. We believe it is the best system possible for keeping the drum in a desirable range while retaining the sound and visual aesthetic of a traditional frame drum. All drums are sold with a tuning wrench included.

Our standard finish is a clear, musical instrument grade lacquer.  This finish protects and brings out the extraordinary grain of our native Vermont hardwoods.  For some models, our drums are specified with decorative and colorful stains, inlays, or overlays.   In most cases, you may choose to personalize your drum with a custom finish.  

Many of the design specifications can be customized - wood choice. head material, diameter, depth, etc.. Contact us by email or phone to discuss your ideas.

We hope you will have a lifetime of satisfaction with your drum and spread the word about the instruments we make.