A percussion musical instrument is one that makes a sound by being hit, scraped or shaken e.g. drums, cymbals, tambourines, triangle, tubular bells, xylophone, glockenspiel, güiro, etc. See wikipedia for a detailed article and list of percussion instruments.
Percussion is now a vital part of any brass band, but it was not always the case. Up until the 1930’s percussion was not allowed in brass band contests!
These days a brass band performance will usually include a drum kit, possibly timpanis, glockenspiel and other percussion.
When marching or parading is required, the band’s marching bass drum is put to good use. This can be carried with a shoulder harness or strap. Sometimes a marching snare drum and hand held cymbals are also used.
