How to Use the Drum Crossover Technique

When you are starting to learn to play the drums, one of the most basic techniques you will learn within the first or second lesson is to crossover with the sticks to hit the high hat or cymbals within a drum fill. Basic drum crossovers are mainly about the position of your body and how the head of the stick touches the drum.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Hold your arms at right angles to the snare drum and the high hat drum. Your arms should be crossed over each other with the arm that will strike the high hat above the other, regardless of if you are left or right handed.
2. Work the wrists. As you hold the sticks in your hands and lay down a beat, snap the stick down with the jerk of the wrist, rather than letting the fingers flop the stick down. This will keep the strike nice and precise.
3. Stay aware of your posture. You want your body to be upright and your arms high and angled to hit the drums accurately so the beat resonates firmly without a wimped out sound. The key is to also stay loose and relaxed while keeping your posture erect.
4. Put the crossovers into fills or drum patterns. Keep on rhythm as you cross the sticks over each other and go for it. Follow patterns created by professional drummers until you are ready to make up your own. Remember, drumming is about style and flair.