Ep 18. Remo Drums

John Ratzenberger's Made in America season 1 episode 18 showcases the manufacturing process of Remo Drums, a California-based company that produces some of the highest quality percussion instruments in the world.

The episode begins with an introduction to the history of percussion instruments and their significance in various cultures. John Ratzenberger then takes us to Remo Drums' factory, where the production of drums and percussion instruments is a sensory experience as much as it is a visual one.

The factory is a vast, bustling space, filled with machines, tools, and skilled workers. We see the different stages of drum-making, from the creation of the drumheads themselves to the final assembly of the finished products. One of the most striking things about the factory is the sheer amount of hands-on work that goes into every drum. While there are machines involved in the process, much of the work is still done by hand, from shaping the drumheads to adding the finishing touches.

John Ratzenberger also introduces us to some of the key figures at Remo Drums, including company founder Remo Belli and his son, Remo Jr. Both men are passionate about their work and incredibly knowledgeable about the history and science of percussion instruments. They discuss the challenges of maintaining consistency across their products while still allowing for variations in tone and feel.

Throughout the episode, we see examples of different types of drums and percussion instruments, including snare drums, bass drums, and bongos. John Ratzenberger offers insight into the differences between each type of drum and the various materials and techniques used to create them. For example, we learn that different types of wood produce different tones in drums, and that the thickness of a drumhead can influence its sound.

In addition to showcasing the manufacturing process at Remo Drums, the episode also touches on the company's commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness. For example, Remo Drums uses solar panels to power their factory, and they use recycled materials whenever possible.

The episode concludes with a showcase of some of the finished products at Remo Drums, including a variety of drums and percussion instruments designed for different styles of music. We also see some of the famous musicians who rely on Remo Drums products, including Sheila E. and Simon Phillips.

Overall, John Ratzenberger's Made in America season 1 episode 18 offers a fascinating look at the world of percussion instrument manufacturing and the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into creating high-quality drums and percussion instruments.