I grew up a drummer. I played from junior high right through college. At first, I didn't care what kind of stick I used. My parents got me cheap ones, mainly because they knew they'd get smashed anyway. But when I got to be a senior in high school and into college I realized the stick makes a difference. There was only one brand that I would use. Vic Firth.

Firth was a percussionist himself. In the 1960's after over a decade of playing, he became frustrated with the drumstick and mallets that were on the market. So in 1963 the Vic Firth company was created. Today, the company produces over 12 million stick and mallets per year. I loved using Vic Firth sticks. There were so many options to choose from based on the style you were playing. And they were affordable. Sure there are pricey sticks that might cost you up to $50 or more. But many start at around $7. Quality sticks at a great price. Just what a poor college student was looking for.

Vic Firth passed away this past weekend. He spent more than 40 years as the primary percussionist for the Boston Symphony and was once called "the single greatest percussionist in the world." I don't play the drums much these days. But if you ever catch me drumming, you better believe I'll have a pair of Vic Firth's in my hand.

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