Probably only a few of the not-so-modern drummers today know about the early hi-hat stand not being adjustable in height, and how those early drummers (including Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich) had to cross their right hand under their left hand to play the hi hats with their stick. There's a great photo of Gene Krupa taken in 1938 during the filming of "Some Like It Hot," showing Gene playing in that old style. (photo below)

There is also some footage of Buddy Rich playing that way during that same period. In many photos from that era, you'll notice several felts built-up beneath the lower hi-hat cymbal, where the player was trying to gain a few more precious inches of height - as much as the rod would allow the upper cymbal and clutch to raise it. (The 1939 Ludwig & Ludwig catalog illustration of their Ray Bauduc Dixieland outfit on page 23 shows what looks to be an adjustable hi-sock stand.)

-- Ken Hart -- (Beatnikjazz) 3/1/09

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