BASICS PAGE
get a Grip:
Maintaining a proper grip, learning proper motion, and keeping good posture while playing is critical to producing a good sound and reducing potential injury to yourself and your equipment. A proper grip and motion technique will help to maximize the energy applied to the drum head while minimizing the amount of effort.
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WOW! I recently discovered a program assembled by a really funny German drummer named Benny Greb. He has developed an awesome method to build your clock, develop sticking, and quickly identify patterns while sight reading. He uses a grid system and assigns letters to identify patterns....kind of like Morse code. I'm currently putting myself through his program and highly recommend you get Benny Greb's DVD "The Language of Drumming".... I did! Thanks Trey at Richmond Music Center for putting me on to this .
All About Drum Sticks!
Those little slivers of hickory are actually quite complex. Learn about the differert parts as well as the many different types.
My Stick Bag!
See what small arsenal I usually carry with me to gigs. I never use them all, but it is nice to be prepared.
Proper Angle - Proper Play!
The linked diagram demonstrates the best angles to get the best sound with the least effort.
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How to Play a Rudiment - Think "Train"!
| 1943 Baldwin Steam Locomotive |
Start very slowly and get faster at an easy, steady pace. Slowly approach your maxiumum playing speed without messing up. Now slow down at the same pace as you started. While playing, keep the same volume throughout the exercise. Remember that going fast does not mean playing LOUDLY and slowing down does not mean playing SOFTLY. See the video above of a train starting to get a sense of this concept.
Internet Features!
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More About Grip:
Check out the following sites for information about proper grip technique.
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How to Throw that Stick:
Using proper wrist technique is important to healthy playing. Visit the links below to learn how.
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Proper Posture:
How important is posture? Playing slouched for extended periods causes extra stress to your the lower back. Good posture will extend your playing time; you'll have more fun too.
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Practice:
Beginners should practice at least 5 times a week for 25 minutes minimum. More advanced playing will need to increse the minimum practice time to 45 minues. Anything less and you are cheating yourself.
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Keep a Log:
Forgetting what you practiced the other day How about using a practice log?
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Listen to Music:
Focus on what the drummer is doing. Try to recognize what is repeated and how he spices it up. Can you identify the count? Most rock songs are in beats of four, but try to find a song with a different beat.
Rudiments and Exercises:
Rudiments?
What are drum rudiments and why are they important? Select "more" below to understand how they help. Also, click on the photo for a printable list of the 40 International Rudiments:
Barry's Exercises
I also have a few exercises that will help you develop tight rolls and flams.
Listed below is my full set of rudiments and related practice exercises. There are a total of 13 original US rudiments, 26 expanded rudiments, and 40 international drum rudiments. Also, click on the rudiment name to see if there is a video link demonstration.
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