Gladstone Society

A Lang Percussion Inc. publication serving owners and admirers of fine historical percussion instruments

Volume 5 No. 2 Winter 2001-Spring 2002

Ten Years Making Gladstone Drums

It started with a rather naive question to a machinist friend-”Do you think that you could make these special drum parts?” “If you are willing to pay for it, we can make anything.”

I showed him a few pieces of my original 1950 Gladstone snare- a tube lug, the three-way key, a tube holder. Two months and six hundred bucks later, I had in my hand the beginnings of a ten year love affair with a most beautiful and wonderful instrument.

To help finance the original production, I offered a black lacquered, gold plated replica for $500., half down with no guarantee of a delivery date. The offering of fifty drums was quickly sold out. Then the hard part began. The drum had not been made in 35-40 years and, to my knowledge all of the original molds and stampings were lost. I was obviously not a machinist, and so, most of the the parts were “reverse engineered” to conform to my original. There was a lot of trial and error (with the emphasis on error).

After about a year I received a message on my answering machine from a young percussionist from Philadelphia. “Do you think that I will get my drum before I die?” My answer on her machine, “How old did you say you were?”

After we were able to finally ship the first snares, we expanded the original concept to include four inch and five inch sizes (The originals were only made in six inch and seven inch depth). We then made complete drum sets: a model with three-way tuning, another with replica Gladstone tube lugs and a third, a Vintage set with wooden hoops. Then came a number of different shell configurations including one-piece steam bent shells, stave shells, titanium shells, and segmented exotic woods.

Although we have made a number of technological changes using the new epoxies and longer lasting and safer lacquers, we have maintained the integrity and sound of the originals.

The Steve Maxwell Collection

Steve has been a supporter of Lang Percussion for a number of years. Since our last issue he has turned his intense curiosity and vast knowledge of vintage drums into a business. Click on his banner at www.notsomoderndrummer.com. I asked Steve to list some of his most historically interesting drums:

Continued from Vol. 5 No. 1 Fall Winter 2000

SLINGERLAND  DuALL  SNARE DRUM
This example is of the post-lawsuit version of the drum previously described. The major difference is the internal mechanism used for creating a parallel release of the snares. This new design was created in an attempt to salvage the parallel snare release concept while avoiding conflict with the Ludwig patent held on the Danley drum. The concept was discontinued after production of only a few drums. Estimates are that only 4-5 of these drums exist today. My drum has been refinished to a natural wood color and the snares are missing, but given the extreme rarity of these drums , I’m glad to have this example.

SLINGERLAND RADIO KING, 5x14, CAPRI PEARL
This drum is an excellent example of the famous one piece maple Radio King snare drum made by Slingerland. The drum has the famous three point strainer and snare extension bridges and has the original snares and heads. The Capri pearl finish was not offered for many years and makes the drum more rare than other common colors.
 
SLINGERLAND 3 PLY 4.5” SHELL, CAPRI PEARL
This drum is somewhat unique. It has a three point strainer and snare extension bridges, but the shell is 4.5”. Slingerland never had this shell size in their catalogues. This factor, and the rare Capri pearl finish make this a very interesting piece.

My personal favorites:   
BILLY GLADSTONE SNARE DRUM
Billy Gladstone, renowned percussionist and inventor, was responsible for many innovative concepts during his time. The most noteworthy being the development of the unique three way tuning system found on this drum. The concept allowed for tensioning of the top head, bottom head, or both heads simultaneously, without turning the drum over. The mechanism developed by Billy utilized a 3-way key. One portion of the key attached to a rod that tightened the top head only. Another portion of the key tightened the bottom head only, and the third portion of the key locked onto the tuning mechanism for
both heads, allowing for the tension to be raised equally on both heads at the same time. Billy’s 3 way tuning concept was initially developed due to the fact that calf heads required frequent tuning as atmospheric conditions changed, such as in the three level stage that rose from the basement of the Radio City Music Hall where Billy was “first chair” in the orchestra’s percussion section. The key and mechanism allowed for all changes in tuning to be made without turning the drum over. As a result, the small confines of the percussion section no longer presented a logistical problem for tuning.
During his time, Billy made slightly more than 50 drums, not many of which exist today. The drum I own has a unique heritage: The drum was owned by Chet Falzerano, noted Gladstone expert, collector and author. Chet sold the drum to Harry Cangany, noted vintage drum historian and author, and Harry subsequently sold the drum to me. After I acquired the drum I spoke to Chet, who graciously provided this history:

- The hardware, minus rims and throw-off, were acquired by Chet from the same person who sold him the S.L. Beimel Gladstone kit. The shell and rims came from Dick Koff in 1993. Dick knew Billy and was going to have him make a drum, but never got around to it. Chet had the drum completed by having Arnie Lang, creator of the Lang/Gladstone drums, provide the strainer and name plate. Truly a unique, historical piece.

GRETSCH GLADSTONE SNARE DRUM
When Billy Gladstone pioneered his 3 way tuning system he was an endorser for Gretsch. As a result, the first drums to bear his tuning mechanism were made by Gretsch. These drums differ somewhat from the drums Billy went on to manufacture later. The most notable differences were the lug design and also the design of the tone control.
My drum is the actual drum that you can see in John Aldridge’s classic book on vintage drums. The heritage of this drum is also interesting. The drum was acquired by me from noted drum historian Harry Cangany, who had the drum in his personal collection for many years. Harry acquired the drum from Chet Falzerano, noted Gladstone and Gretsch expert. Chet’s story regarding this drum is as follows:
- The drum was originally owned by Joe Sinai of the San Francisco Symphony. After Joe’s passing the drum belonged to Tony Cirone, who had also been a member of the S. F. Symphony.
Chet bought the drum from Tony, however, the drum had been taken apart and the shell had diamond shaped holes cut into it. Tony told Chet that he and Joe thought the drum sounded too “boxy” so they cut the holes in the shell. Chet was fortunate enough to find an original shell and was therefore able to recreate the drum as you see it here today.

LANG/GLADSTONE DRUMS
Some time after Billy Gladstone’s death, the molds and equipment used by Billy were acquired by Ted Reed*. After Ted’s death Morris “Arnie” Lang, world famous percussionist, procured the molds and machinery and began to produce the Lang Gladstone line of drums. These drums hold true to the traditions inspired by Billy, and yet they add a new dimension of visual and aural beauty, thanks to Arnie’s creativity. Since 1997 Arnie has produced a Lang/Gladstone Commemorative drum in addition to his other custom orders. The drums in my collection are as follows:
1- Black lacquer Lang/Gladstone with chrome hardware
2-1997 Commemorative Lang/Gladstone. Gold lacquer with gold hardware.
3-1998 Commemorative Lang/Gladstone. Bird’s eye maple with gold hardware.
4-1999 Commemorative Lang/Gladstone. One piece pecan shell made by John Craviotto. Gold hardware. Serial #1
5- 5.5x14 custom made Lang/Gladstone with birds eye maple shell by Ryan Payne, and gold hardware. Custom made for Harry Cangany and includes a custom flight case.
6- 5x14 WMP Lang/Gladstone, with gold hardware. Shell by Keller.
7- 5x14 Top Hat and Cane, with wood hoops with Top Hat and Cane inlays. Chrome hardware.
8- 5x14 Lang/Gladstone drum made with a Craviotto Lake Superior shell. Gold hardware.

Each of Arnie’s drums has a unique voice, and the tuning mechanism is superb, as is the smooth simple strainer design that Billy created.

OTHER INTERESTING ITEMS

ROGERS WMP POWERTONE SNARE DRUM “KIT”.
NEW OLD STOCK.
This item is a true rarity. The WMP Powertone snare drum has never been played. Additionally, the “kit” includes the hardshell carrying case, snare drum stand, sticks, brushes, method book and music-minus-one instruction record. None of these items has ever been used with the exception of the method book.

The snare drum has a rubber band attached from the throw off lever to one of the tension rods. This was done at the factory as a means of keeping the throw off lever in place during shipping.

The Powertone was very popular and is a very versatile drum. Many players prefer it to the Dynasonic because of its ease of tuning, versatile sound, and consistency. It is a straight forward, no nonsense drum with excellent sensitivity and projection.

CRAVIOTTO LAKE SUPERIOR SNARE DRUM
One piece solid shell made by John Craviotto from wood that is 600-800 years old. This wood has been salvaged from Lake Superior and is highly touted for its tonal quality and beautiful appearance. This wood is being used for fine furniture as well as for violins, among other things. There are limited quantities of this wood, and production of this drum has been limited to 200. The vintage tube lugs and rims are gold plated and the rims are engraved by John Aldridge, master engraver, noted vintage drum expert, and author and founder of Not So Modern Drummer magazine.

John Craviotto’s work is the work of a true craftsman, and the Lake Superior drum may be his crowning achievement.

FIBES UNIQUE PRESENTATION DRUM
This drum is a unique item. It was made at the time when C.F.Martin Co. purchased Fibes. The drum was made as a presentation piece for the former owners of Fibes. The traditional Fibes shell was covered with Honduras rosewood and there are mother of pearl inlays in the panels. All hardware including the snares is 14k gold
plated.

*To my knowledge all of the molds and machinery were lost (see pg. 1) MAL

What's New At Lang Percussion

We keep looking for new suppliers of shells to expand our line of Gladstone drums- although we love the consistent and beautiful eight ply Keller shells.

We have made a number of drums with shells of assorted hardwood staves. We have a Persimmon (a grayish tint with a straight grain), a Curly Maple with strips of Purple heart, a ten lug Rosewood and Curly Maple, and a number of others.

We also have in stock a 5/12” X 13” snare from a solid Craviotto shell and a 7” X 12” from a Keller shell. Does it cut!

We have started a joint venture with Ron Dunnet. He makes the titanium shells, and we put on the Gladstone hardware. You can order from LP or Ron.

Tommy Robertson, owner of Fibes Drums, has supplied us with a number of fiberglass shells with some exotic pearl finishes.

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Everett M. Beale, timpanist with the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, has become our newest dealer. He started with a bang, ordering a “Club” drum set and a 7” clear Maple that went to a customer in Romania. He has on order a 7” hand hammered solid copper shell made by the D. Picking Co., famous for their hand made copper timpani kettles. Telephone (978) 649-7685, e-mail, e.beale@att.net.

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Mike “Ding” Lorenze, from Percussion Services Ltd., used his new 34” Chain Timpani on a concert. He played William Tell Overture, but in the storm scene played the B and E rolls (imitating thunder) an octave lower. The conductor flipped.
Just finishing a 4” snare and a black lacquer field drum. Mike supplied the segmented snare shell with a Ying-Yang sign inlayed.

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Artie Lieberman, from Mallet Instrument Services, has on order two Craviotto Lake Superiors, and two 10” X 5” snares.

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Look for an extended interview with Arnie Lang in Vintage Drummer Magazine, arranged by our good friend and supporter, Michael Gilbert. Email Vintage at billyjeansonne@earthlink.net.

We have shipped an order to the Irish National Symphony Orchestra consisting of six concert toms (natural Maple), a Mahogany stain Keller, a solid Maple with clear lacquer, a solid Fiddle back Maple and a Keller field drum- all with calf heads and three-way tuning. Thanks to Richard O’Donnell, first percussionist, for his support.

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We have two 5 1/2” Craviotto “Lake Superior” birds- eye shells in the shop. These remarkable drums are becoming very rare as the supply of the recovered wood dwindles. It is rumored that the company that discovered and retrieved the wood in Lake Superior, is in bankruptcy. CALL!

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We have shipped a 31” Pedal Timp to Phillip Hanson, and am working on a number of chain drum conversions. We have 28”, 25” and 24” pedals in stock for immediate delivery.

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We have just finished the prototypes of the new “Animal” series. It is a solid copper shell with conventional hardware, but with a Gladstone-type snare throw. The decoration is done with an acid burn directly on the shell, and no two drums look alike. We have made 4” and 5.5” snares and a complete drum set out of copper. It will sell for a very competitive price, and use some of the know-how that we have gained from making the Gladstones.

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It is with great sadness that we heard that Billy Higgins succumbed to liver disease.

Myron Cohen, a close friend of Billy’s, had bought him a Lang/Gladstone snare drum just a few months ago. Myron had come to the shop and tried out about 20 different snares. (Myron is a fabulous drummer himself, in the mode of Buddy Rich). He chose a “one of a kind” Mahogany shell as his gift to Billy.

Myron invited me to the Knitting Factory to hear Billy play. I had never heard him live and was thrilled to hear his beautiful touch and the sound that he drew from the new snare. When we talked back stage, Billy seemed tired. But, when he was on stage playing, all cares seemed to disappear, and his joyful energy and remarkable sound came through.

Luckily there are still many recordings to derive pleasure from. Sorry I was so late in appreciating this underrated artist.

GLADSTONES AT WORK

Billy Young recently purchased a Gladstone Custom 1950s classic 7” black lacquer snare from Frank Fallon, the original owner (Frank owns a Lang/Gladstone, so he will not be too lonely). Included were a number of letters in Billy’s hand- more in the next issue: Tim Laushey is using his new “Top Hat and Cane” on tour with the Nelson Riddle Orchestra. Tim has played with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, Ray McKinnley, Bob Crosby, Les Elgar, etc, etc: David Pasquarella, a very talented percussionist and drum builder, owns four Gladstone Snares a Field Drum and a pair of Chain Timpani. A 7” with Brady shell, a Keller mahogany stain, a fiberglass 5 1/2”, a solid birds eye: John Di Giovanni is the proud owner of the lone Millennium drum set: Howard Van Heining of Van Percussion Co. and percussionist with the NYC Opera, brought in an unusual Gladstone for repair. It was obviously put together by Billy for his own use. It has a metal shell, it seems by Gretsch, with 1950s hardware, and a wonderful plaque saying “Billy Gladstone- Radio City Music Hall 1932-1950”. It still had the original gut snares and sounds remarkable after a little work: Carl Palmer has been using his Brady/Gladstone set on a recent concert/clinic tour. He continues to inspire and delight: If you haven’t seen it yet, check out Peter Erskine’s new book, “The Drum Perspective” published by Hal/Leonard. It is full of good advise and great playing on the CD: Cristian Balea of the Societatea Romana de Radiodifuzione Orchestra in Bucharest, Romania purchased a 7” Keller with clear lacquer: Richard O’Donnell (owner of four Lang/Gladstones) was featured soloist with the National Symphony in Dublin. For the Ravel’s Bolero they brought him and his Gladstone to the front of the orchestra: Ray Marchica (Rosie O’Donnald Show) owns a 5 1/2” solid with gold hardware: Morris Lang used a 5 1/2” Craviotto” Lake Superior” in his “Gladstone