For the snare drummer, stickings are analogous to bowings for string players. There are two main systems for stickings: 1) Free Alternating System and 2) Right Hand Lead System. Each systems has their advantages and disadvantages. Check out the video for an explanation of each system. (more…)
The snare drum roll is one of the most difficult rudiments on the snare drum. The concept of the roll is easy. The difficulty comes with the execution. Over the past several videos, I have illustrated different strategies for improving the roll. I have found that over the years, I like to vary the exercises that I use to strengthen and improve my rolls. Here are two exercises that are guaranteed to help you develop your rolls. Download the PDF, get out your drum and roll.
Over the past couple of months, I have been introducing snare drum rudiments. For the percussionist, rudiments are like scales. You should be practicing them everyday just like a wind player practices scales. In today’s video, I would like to introduce my snare drum warm-up that I wrote a year ago. This 12 minute warm-up includes all of the basic strokes to give you a well rounded warm-up. Please download a copy of my snare drum warm-up, get out your practice pad, a metronome and go for it.
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In the previous episode, I have talked about the triple stroke roll. Please make sure to review that video for more information. In today’s episode, I introduce the multiple bounce roll, aka the “Buzz Roll.” Let me know if you have any questions and comments. (more…)
httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLrWEfsircY
In the previous episodes, I have talked about how to develop the double stroke roll. (Double Stroke Rolls and 5,7,9 Stroke Rolls.) Please make sure to review those videos for more information. In today’s episode, I introduce the “concert style roll,” aka the Triple Bounce Roll. Let me know if you have any questions and comments.
Level: Intermediate/Advanced
httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bt4yLHTxXAw
In today’s episode we take the next step in our double stroke rolls and talk about 5, 7, 9 stroke rolls. When executing bounced strokes, make sure you are letting the stick do all of the work. If you have a good fulcrum, a relaxed grip and you allow the stick to bounce, over time you will develop a good sounding roll. Remember: One Arm Stroke, Two Bounces.
Please feel free to leave comments and/or questions below.
Level: Beginning/Intermediate
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