How to Play a Traditional Drum Grip with Rods

Using rods are a relatively new style. The traditional drum stick grip is now being updated. You'll learn to use the two together to make an exciting new way to play. Rods can soon be a fantastic addition to your percussive arsenal.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rods
• Drums

Traditional grip with the latest in Drum Stick technology

1. 
   Left hand traditional grip

   Make a Mr. Spock sign with your left hand and extend your thumb outwards. With your palm facing up, lay a Rod in the "V" between your four fingers and the "V" by your thumb. Then close your thumb over the Rod.

2. 
   Traditional grip, both hands

   Pick up the other Rod using an overhand grip with your other hand.

3. 
   Another type of Rod

   Find the right balance. Rods are of completely different construction than solid wood Drum Sticks. The weight distribution is not the same. Try holding the Rods a little shorter or a little longer until the sweet spot becomes apparent.

4. Play with the Rods the same way you would with regular sticks using the traditional grip. The difference is in how the Sticks or Rods are made, not in how you hold them. They produce different sounds from each other no matter what grip you use.

Tips & Warnings

• Try using the Butt end of the Rods to get a sound more like Sticks.