The beginning student learns that the rhythm is the "heart beat" of the band. The student is first taught to "feel" the rhythm and learn basic techniques on a drum pad. We use a "matched grip." This means that both hands will hold the drum sticks the same way.

 

Establish good posture:

Stand straight.

Feet should be slightly apart with one foot slightly in front of the other. Your weight should be evenly distributed.

Stand about 12 inches away from your snare drum or drum pad.

Your instrument should ideally be about 4 inches below your waist.

 

Holding the drum sticks. For each hand:

The stick should be held approximately 1/3 from the end.

At this point, place your thumb pad and first joint of your index finger around the stick.

Your thumb points toward the drum stick tip.

The other three fingers are then drawn loosely around the stick to help control and guide your strokes.

Turn your wrist so that your palm is facing downward.

 

Stroking the drum:

The drum should not be beaten. You should pretend that you are firmly pulling the tone from the snare head.

The best tone comes from the area 1/3 closest to the rim of the drum head (not from the middle.)

Your sticks should form a 60 degree angle, with your elbows slightly outward and away from your body.

Sticks should be about 6 inches above the drum.

Action should come from the wrist, not the arms, in a bouncing manner.

 

Techniques for Playing Common Rhythm Instruments

Bass drum - This instrument should be played using a bass drum stand. Cradle your body around the drum. Using a soft, large beater, strike the drum with the right hand and muffle the sound with the left hand to stop the bass drum sound from sounding longer than desired.

Woodblock - Holding the woodblock in your left hand, strike the woodblock on the top center with a rubber mallet or drum stick.

Triangle - The triangle must be suspended in order to allow the instrument to produce vibrations. Using a metal beater, strike the side opposite the open corner.

Crash cymbals - One cymbal is held in each hand. Hold one cymbal still while the other gently sweeps the stationary cymbal in an upward motion. To silence the sound from ringing, place the cymbals against your body.

Tambourines - Holding the tambourine in one hand, the tambourine may be shaken or struck against the side of your body. The tambourine may also be held with one hand and struck with the finger tips, knuckles or heel of the other hand.