Our Story

The story of Doc’s Custom Drums started in 2018 when “Doc” (Jerrold Michaelson) refurbished his own 1963 Slingerland Drum Set (Kit). This vintage kit was disassembled, cleaned, polished and reassembled. New heads were installed and tuned to a more contemporary sounding kit.

The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind, where Doc taught wind and percussion instruments, had numerous instruments in its inventory that had been unused and/or in bad repair for about twenty years. Restoring these instruments became the summer project: working on several full kits, timbales, snares and tom-toms. All instruments were restored to full playing condition.

Since Doc enjoyed the fixing, repairing, tuning and polishing each drum, he purchased several Vintage Drums and began the process of restoration. Additional research was continued utilizing the numerous sites available on the internet. Each instrument he worked on was restored and/or regenerated. Each instrument was created for the ultimate quality sound. It was soon apparent that numerous “drum shells” were available for purchase on websites, garage sales and consignment stores. With this fresh inventory, he began experimenting with different combinations of contemporary hardware. Several drum machinists were consulted to develop and achieve a “unique” appearance and sound.

Doc can custom design and adapt most drum shells for beginners to advanced players. Doc’s Custom Drums can transform that old (vintage) set that’s stored in the garage or attic. Hopefully each instrument is finished for the expression of each drummer. We can also repair/tune/update your instrument so that you can perform with confidence. Free estimates are available.