Ash and cherry, mountain maple and above all else the fragrant stone pine that flourishes at the higher elevations of the Valle Aurina-Ahrntal form the basis for the traditional South Tyrolean-Südtiroler art of woodcarving which is particularly widespread in the region of the Dolomites. Thus all those who are strolling through Valdaora-Olang will have a hard time skipping the woodcarving studio of Konrad and Rosa Bachmann. Precision along a fine understanding of quality, accompanied by the artistic sense and pure creativity are all seen in the angels that are lined up with the messages of happiness, just as with the sacred figures, crucifixes, crèches, and secular works of art. The shop also houses the carving studio itself where the master, who incidentally studied at the famous school of art in Ortisei-St. Ulrich in the Val Gardena-Grödental, can be watched as he executes his craft.
In the heart of Niederolang, in a small yet refined workshop, instruments are created that have gained recognition far beyond the borders of South Tyrol: handcrafted drums by Adrian Kirchler. What might at first glance appear to be a traditional artisan’s workshop soon reveals itself as a creative sound forge, where music, precision, and passion come together in perfect harmony.
Adrian began his career as a goldsmith – a profession that demands sensitivity, technical skill, and an eye for aesthetics. Yet his second passion, playing the drums, never left him. Over the years, he developed his own technique for crafting unique drums from metals such as copper, brass, and bronze. What started as an experiment has grown into a craft celebrated internationally.
Since 2004, Adrian Kirchler has dedicated himself entirely to drum making. Each of his instruments is a one-of-a-kind piece – tailored to the specific sound preferences of musicians from all over the world. Whether for large rock stages, refined chamber music, demanding recording studios, or passionate collectors: Adrian finds the perfect solution for every requirement.
He uses not only a variety of materials, but also special forging techniques, artistic engravings, and even historical model reconstructions.
What makes Adrian’s work truly special is the blend of traditional craftsmanship with musical sensitivity. Every detail – from the thickness of the drum shell to the surface finish – influences the sound. With precise hammer strikes, he creates textures that are not only visually striking but also shape the instrument’s tone. This meticulous attention to detail is what makes his drums so sought-after – even by the biggest names in music.
His clients include musicians from the Rolling Stones, Joe Cocker, Toto, Paul McCartney, and the Vienna Philharmonic. Some of them visit Adrian personally in Valdaora, while others invite him to concerts when they’re on tour with one of his drums.
One of Adrian’s proudest achievements is a drum he built for the 100th anniversary of the legendary Ludwig drum company – a historic 1909 model, masterfully recreated and finished in radiant gold. A true masterpiece.
Despite his international acclaim, Adrian remains down-to-earth. He loves working with his hands, exploring new sounds, and bringing individual customer ideas to life. His workshop is a space of creativity and dedication, producing between 40 and 60 instruments a year – with a waiting time of up to two years. For his clients, that wait is a mark of quality.
