

Above left: An advertisement mock up for the Migirian Oval Head Bass Drum, 1986. Above right: A photograph of the unique Migirian bass drum used for advertisements and sales, ca. 1986. Both images from the George Migirian Drum Co. Papers.
Abstract: The George Migirian Drum Co. Papers document inventor George Migirian’s research, patent application, manufacture, and sale of the Migirian Oval Head Bass Drum through his company Migirian Drum Co. The Oval Head Bass Drum was a unique bass drum developed by Migirian over eight years featuring a rectangular case with an oval head. The drum offered a heavier, fuller sound and was compatible with most commercially-available drum sets. It was first offered for sale in 1983 and sold through at least 1986, although it never widely caught on. The collection contains research, drawings, blueprints, patent applications, issued patents, and supplier correspondence related to the development of the Migirian Oval Head Bass Drum. Also included is an extensive collection of product photographs and negatives, design assets, and advertising materials.
Donor(s): Jonah Raduns-Silverstein. This collection was salvaged. Please contact info@detroitsound.org if you have questions or information about the ownership of this material.
Dates: 1957-1988, bulk 1975-1983
Extent: 3 LF
Collection Type: Physical
Subjects: Drums, patents, patent application, George Migirian, Oval Head Bass Drum
Related Collections and Artifacts:
- Bill Cairo’s Drum House Artifacts