Just how common are the various wraps and finishes that Gretsch used on its vintage drums? This study reviews data gathered from a representative sample of Round Badge Gretsch drums produced from about 1962 through about 1969.
Read moreHarvey Wolfson and his Gretsch Drums
“By now it was 1956, and my drums were getting pretty worn and shabby from all the traveling. So I talked to the officer in charge of the tour, whose name was Lieutenant Whiting. I told him that I’d pretty much used my drums up playing so many dates. He told me to go to the music store in downtown Atlanta and order whatever I thought I was going to need, and send the bill to him.
“I went to the store and ordered the best set of drums that I could find in the Gretsch catalog: a Broadkaster ‘Bop’ outfit, including two 22″ K Zildjian cymbals.
Read more1954 Gretsch Broadkaster "Name Band" Drum Set w Zildjian cymbals - $3000
This is a brokered set. Serious offers only. The owner will ship from Abilene Texas. 14 x 6.5 snare, 14x22 bs, 9x13 and 16x16 toms. 15" hats and 18" crash from the same era. In excellent shape. Please direct all questions and offers to George Lawrence either in the comments below or via email george@notsomoderndrummer.com.
Read moreThe Gretsch Drum Kit That Made Olympic History (Tony Williams' yellow set)
“There I was, thinking, ‘This is the kit that Tony Williams played; they’re his drums. And I’m responsible for them.’ So I started trying to take the drums down and get them someplace safe. Then a security person walked up and said, ‘Get your ass off stage.’ I told him, ‘I’ve gotta get my drums off first. These are really historic drums.’
Read moreFred Gretsch Receives Honorary Degree from Elmhurst College
Fred Gretsch is flanked by Elmhurst College Interim President Larry Braskamp (left) and Music Department Chair Peter Griffin.
Fred Gretsch Receives Honarary Degree from Elmhurst College
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