Tuning a snare drum is essential to achieving the desired sound and playability for any performance or recording. The snare drum’s pitch is primarily determined by the tension of the drumhead, with both the batter (top) and resonant (bottom) heads playing important roles. For the batter head, a medium to high tension is often preferred for a crisp, clear tone with a sharp attack, while the resonant head should typically be tuned slightly higher than the batter head to create a responsive snare sound. The tension of the snare wires underneath the drum can also be adjusted to fine-tune the level of buzz or snare sensitivity. The goal is to balance the drum’s pitch, sustain, and responsiveness to get a rich, articulate sound that complements the rest of the kit. A good snare tuning can range from a tight, high-pitched crack to a more open, low thud, depending on musical style and personal preference.