How to Play a High Hat with Brushes

The hi-hat is the pair of cymbals on a drum kit that consists of two cymbals connected, one on top of the other, upon a stand. The cymbals can be brought together or apart by the use of a pedal at the bottom of the stand. The hi-hat is an integral part of most drum sets and, when played properly, can add an essential sound to your playing. Playing a hi-hat with brushes gives a unique sound, which is more diffused and quieter than if a drummer uses drumsticks or rods. Read on to learn how to play a hi-hat with brushes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Brushes
• Hi-hat

1. Grip the brushes with whichever style you are most comfortable.
2. Play the hi-hat closed by loosening the screw at the top of the stand so that the top cymbal is resting against the bottom cymbal. Another way to play the hi-hat closed is by pressing down on the stand's pedal all the way until both cymbals are resting upon one another.
3. Play the hi-hat open by pressing down hard on the pedal while the screw at the top of the stand is completely loosened, then tighten the screw and release the pedal. This will cause the top cymbal to rise up off the bottom cymbal.
4. Play the hi-hat half open by following the instructions in Step 3, except that the pedal should be pressed down upon more lightly, so that the top and the bottom cymbals aren't quite as far apart.
5. Play the hi-hat both open and closed, alternating between the two, by opening the cymbals, as described above, and then pressing down and releasing the pedal as you play. When you press down on the pedal the cymbals will be closed together, and when you lift up on the pedal it will open.