How to Play the Bass Drum

The bass drum is the heartbeat of the music. Along with the bass guitar, the bass drum provides a beat that the other instruments rely on. When you're comfortable with your ability to play the bass drum, you'll find the band as a whole sounds even better.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Find the Rhythm

1. Determine the beat of the music. For example, if it's 4/4, there are 4 beats for every measure.

2. Play on the downbeats. Using the example above, play on beat 1 and on beat 3 of each measure.

3. Add a little spice. Once you're confident in your beat, you can add a little extra. However, make sure that your additions complement the music and the rest of the band.

Play the Bass Drum in a Drum Set

4. Find the pedal attached to the bass drum. Because your hands hold the drumsticks, use this pedal to play the bass drum.

5. Sit in a comfortable position. Adjust your stool up or down as necessary until it feels natural to reach the pedal.

6. Depress the pedal so the mallet hits the drum. Adjust the pedal and mallet as necessary so it hits in the correct location.

7. Hit the bass drum according to the rhythm of the music.

Play a Stand-Alone Bass Drum

8. Display the drum as appropriate. Place the bass drum on a stand if you play in an orchestra. If you're in a marching band, hang the bass drum using the harness that fits over your shoulders.

9. Choose the bass drum size that's appropriate for you, if you play in a marching band. If the large drum is too heavy, ask to switch to a smaller size.

10. Grasp a mallet in each hand and hit the bass drum in the center of the head.

11. Make music when you play the bass drum according to the rhythm of the song.