How to Differentiate Between Drumming Styles

There are 3 different ways that you can hold the drum stick when you're playing matched hand positions. You also can hold them in the traditional pattern to add a fourth to the group. The matched hold became more popular as the size of the set made it more difficult to use the traditional grip.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Try the French matched grip when you hold drum sticks. Use the fingers primarily in the movement of the stick. This gives a lot of speed but lacks the power of the German grip. Pinch the stick between the thumb and the index finger while you keep the palms of the hands facing each other.

2. Get power with the German grip. A second matched grip, one where both hands hold the drum sticks the same way, is the German grip. The German grip uses the wrists so it has a lot more power but speed and finesse are lost in the process. The palms of the hands are directly over the drum as the stick is held by pinching the stick between the thumb and second segment of the first finger.

3. Mix the first two grips to hold the drum sticks in the hybrid, American grip. Angle the hands so the palms remain at a 45-degree angle to the drum. Pinch the stick between the second joint and the thumb. Use a little bit finger movement and a little wrist. If you have a large set of drums and the song calls for a lot of snare, this is a great grip to use.

4. Hold each stick differently when you use the traditional grip. If you don't play a drum set, but simply a snare drum, this grip's used almost exclusively. The left hand is held in a grip that is overhand. The palm faces the drum and the fingers wrap around it. The stick is held between the thumb and first finger and rests atop the valley located at the base of the thumb. The second finger is lightly beside the stick and the third under it.