Whether you’re just starting to learn the drums or are a seasoned pro, choosing the right grip for your drum sticks can be a tricky decision. There are two main types of drum stick grip – traditional and matched.
Each grip has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh up which one is right for you. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each type of drum stick grip.
How Do Drummers Hold Their Drumsticks?
Drummers have to be very precise with their stick work, so it’s important that they learn how to hold their drumsticks correctly. Here are a few general tips before we dive into the two main different drum stick grips:
- Grip the stick near the tip, with your thumb and first two fingers.
- Rest the stick on your third finger, at the base of the knuckle.
- Wrap your fourth finger around the stick, for added support.
- Hold the stick loosely, letting it move freely in your hand.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to play with more precision and control. Practice makes perfect, so make sure to take some time to perfect your grip before heading out to your next gig.
If you’re not sure how to perfect the correct drum stick grip, you may want to sign up for drum lessons. You’ll not only learn everything you need to know in order to master the proper drum stick grip techniques for the types of songs you’re playing, but you’ll master other essential skills as well, like what you see in the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwKF7LiXW3I
Traditional vs. Matched Drum Stick Grip Techniques – Which is Right for You?
Learning proper grip for holding your drum sticks is one of the first things you’ll tackle in your drum lessons. To start with, you’ll need to know the differences between traditional grip and matched grip. Here, TakeLessons student counselor Nick S. offers a quick overview of what you need to know…
Matched Grip
Matched grip is a technique that uses the overhand position, with both hands gripping the drumstick the same way. Matched grip comes in three forms: French grip, German grip and American grip.
French grip consists of the two palms facing each other, with the thumbs directly on top of the drum stick. The stick is primarily moved by using the fingers rather than with the wrist like the German grip. This technique is usually used by timpanists due to its greater degree of finesse.
German grip offers more power by placing the palms parallel with the floor and the thumbs on the side of the drum stick. The stick is primarily moved by the wrist, rather than the fingers.
American grip is a hybrid of the French and German grips, offering the greatest overall benefits. The palms are faced at about a 45-degree angle and the thumbs are placed just above the side of the stick. The stick is moved by using a combination of wrist (power) and fingers (finesse & speed).
Traditional Grip
Traditional grip is primarily used by jazz drum set players, marching drum lines and snare drum. This technique uses an overhand American grip with the right hand and an underhand grip for the left hand.
To execute the traditional grip of your left hand, start with your left hand out as if you were to shake someone’s hand. Place the last 2-4 inches of the drum stick in the crook of your thumb and rest the front of the stick on the first knuckle of your ring finger. Next, place the pad of the thumb on the first knuckle of your index finger. Keep the middle finger relaxed and on the stick, and the ring and pinky finger should stay relaxed underneath the stick. The fundamental motion of the left hand is like turning a doorknob and uses the thumb as the primary finger to bounce the stick.
What is the Best Drum Grip?
So which type of drum stick grip should you use? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference as there are benefits and drawbacks to both grips depending on what style of music you prefer to play. If you are just starting out then we would recommend trying out both grips before making a decision as this will give you a feel for how they work before fully committing yourself to one or the other.
Why Do Drummers Use Traditional Grip?
The traditional grip is often used by jazz drummers because it gives them more control when playing softer music. With this grip, your left hand is positioned with the thumb on top while your right hand uses an overhand grip with the thumb on bottom. This allows you to use different angles and motions in order to play more intricate patterns on the drums. It also gives you more control over speed, dynamics, and articulation than the matched grip does.
However, this grip does require more energy since your arms must move in different directions in order to play different notes which can make it difficult for beginners who don’t have as much experience with playing drums.
Why Do Drummers Use Matched Grip?
The matched grip is most popular among rock drummers because it allows them to play fast rhythms and beats that require power. This grip involves keeping both hands in an overhand position with both thumbs facing down towards the floor. This allows your arms to move in unison, making it easier for beginners to play faster rhythms without having to worry about controlling their arms independently.
However, this also means that you may lack some control when playing softer music since you won’t be able to use different angles or motions like you would with the traditional grip.
Final Thoughts on Drum Stick Grip
No matter which type of drum stick grip you choose, practice makes perfect! With enough practice and dedication, you will soon be able master whichever type best suits your needs!
Sign up for drum lessons and you’ll know exactly which style is right for you.
Learning how to hold your drumsticks correctly is important, since poor technique can lead to strain and injuries. Readers, which grip do you use? Weigh in by leaving a comment, or stop by our Facebook page to discuss!
You might also like…
– Practice Drum Rudiments Without Getting Bored
– Video: How Are Drum Sticks Made?
– Drumming With Your Weaker Hand: 3 Helpful Tips
Photo by gordasm.
Suzy S.