How long are tenor heads generally supposed to last? I replaced one head about 2 or 3 weeks ago and it's already dead (no resonance) and a bunch of dents from where I played. Am I just using too much force when I play?

Also, what's the correct method for changing tenor heads (I've heard things about tuning new heads lower until they stretch a little from playing).

There are a few things to look for/consider in this situation.

- Make sure that you're tuning the head "up" enough to withstand normal wear and tear. A low-tension drum head is much more vulnerable to dents than a high-tension tuning. Check YouTube videos of a few drum corps tenor lines to get an idea for the right tuning range.

- Take a look at your technique. If denting heads has been a long-running issue with you in particular, chances are you're using WAY too much force behind your playing. Whether you're at a contest, halftime show, or in the stands at a football game, make sure you're always approaching the drums with the same amount of velocity, and never TOO much. Again, watching some YouTube vids will give you the right idea.

- As far as a method for changing tenor heads, it's always good to tune them up slowly the first time, if you have the time and patience. This will ensure that the head stretches out evenly, giving you the most durable/best sounding playing surface. Start by "seating" the head underneath the rim, then finger-tighten all of the tension rods. Next, start tightening everything at 1/8 of a turn per lug, occasionally pressing on the drum head to make sure it's stretching itself out. Continue until you reach the desired tension.

---

Any other questions, feel free to ask!

Cheers,
Zach

Like Zach hinted, if tenor heads are denting easily, there's a really good chance they're not tuned high enough. If you've got decent heads and they're tuned in the proper range, you should find them to be pretty darn dent-resistant. You'll see some little dents and scuffs on the surface of a shiny new head, but nothing big enough to deform the surface of the head.

When heads are dented and deformed, their tone and 'tunability' are negatively affected.

Single Ply heads tend to dent much easier than double ply. If your playing on single ply that might be why.