John Grey Orchestral Drums

Orchestral drums made by John Grey

Orchestral drums are used by symphony orchestras to provide rhythm, dynamics, and dramatic texture. They are designed to be played individually, unlike a standard drum kit, 

John Grey & Sons (London) Limited, a subsidiary company of Barnett, Samuel & Sons, was established in Westminster in 1832. The company became well known for the manufacture of fine banjos, guitars and drums. The company was founded in 1832 and originally manufactured watches and steel pens and only distributed musical instruments wholesale. In 1928, the company was bought by Rose, Morris & Co.

The following information was taken from a page in a catalogue.

Broadway

SNARE DRUMS The first drum ever in this price range with…

DIE-MOULDED COUNTER HOOPS with cushion rims and solid tension lugs.
Greater strength – perfectly even tension-less stick wear.

HEADMASTER PLASTIC HEADS, un-affected by changes of temperature – no retensioning – perfect response always. Sandblasted surface for double life brush grip.

MODEL 515
14″ x 5″ (36 × 13 cms.)
The most outstanding Snare Drum in its class. Soundly constructed, exceptional response and striking appearance Laminated wood shell. Six die-moulded self-aligning tension fittings. Positive action snare mechanism with coiled wire
snares. All metal darts chromium plated and polished.
AVAILABLE FINISHED IN BLACK OR WHITE MIRROR PLASTIC. MARINE PEARL, GREY PEARL OR MIDNIGHT BLUE PEARL. RED OR TURQUOISE GLITTER
Model 55 Mirror plastic
Model 0515 Pearl or glitter

MODE 502
14″ x 5″ (36 x 13 cms)
An inexpensive model soundly constructed. Strip steel counter hoops. Six separate tension fittings; reliable snare release and coiled wire snare. Good vellum heads.
Model 502 Black or White enamel
Model 0502 Marine Pearl, Grey Pearl or Midnight Blue Pearl Red or Turquoise Glitter

MODEL 500
14″ × 3″ (36 × 7.50 cms)
A single tension model of good tone. Strip steel hoops and six tension screws, adjustable snare. Good vellum heads. Finished in White enamel or assorted plastic coverings.