How to Perform a Double Paradiddle

The double paradiddle is one of the 26 standard rudiments of drumming. It builds upon the single paradiddle and facilitates improved stick control and technical execution when drumming. When done correctly, it can be a really powerful play. Here we'll show you how to succeed in performing a double paradiddle.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Snare Drum
• Drumsticks
• Metronome

How to Perform a Double Paradiddle

1. Set up your drum or practice pad and grasp your drumsticks in an accepted manner.

2. Execute the sticking pattern of the double paradiddle starting with the right hand: R L R L R R.

3. Switch to the left hand, repeating step 2: L R L R L L.

4. Practice these slowly, until you can perform them steadily, with no pause in between the right and left. A useful way to remember the sticking is to say "Para para diddle, para para diddle" repeatedly.

5. Set the metronome to a slow tempo and perform double paradiddles without pausing, Gradually increase the speed of the metronome as you gain facility in performing the rudiment. Remember that the space between notes should be constant .

Tips & Warnings

• Practicing with a metronome is one of the best ways to improve your performance.
• To ensure you are keeping a steady beat, set the metronome to a very high tempo, and make one stroke of the stick for every beat of the metronome.
• Avoid practicing in areas where loud sounds can affect or annoy others.